Albrecht Durer

Albrecht Dürer was born to Albrecht Dürer the Elder and Barbara Holper in Nuremberg, a free imperial city in the Holy Roman Empire. His father was a successful goldsmith.

Dürer began his apprenticeship with the prominent painter and woodcut illustrator Michael Wolgemut. This training laid the foundation for his future artistic skills and techniques.

Dürer created his first self-portrait, a silverpoint drawing, showcasing his early talent and interest in self-representation. This piece is one of the earliest known self-portraits in Western art.

Dürer married Agnes Frey, the daughter of a wealthy brass worker. The marriage was arranged, and it helped to secure his social and economic position in Nuremberg.

Dürer set up his own workshop in Nuremberg, where he began to produce a wide range of works, including prints, paintings, and theoretical writings. His workshop became a center for artistic innovation.

Dürer published his series of 15 woodcuts illustrating the Book of Revelation, known as the Apocalypse. These prints were highly influential and demonstrated his mastery of the medium.

Dürer made his second trip to Italy, spending time in Venice and other cities. This journey exposed him to the Italian Renaissance and had a profound impact on his art and artistic theories.

Dürer was appointed as the court artist to Emperor Maximilian I, a position that brought him prestigious commissions and financial security. He produced numerous works for the emperor, including portraits and designs for triumphal arches.

Dürer created one of his most famous and enigmatic works, the engraving 'Melencolia I.' This complex piece explores themes of creativity, knowledge, and the human condition, and remains a subject of scholarly interpretation.

Dürer traveled to the Netherlands to meet other artists and secure commissions. During this journey, he encountered important figures such as Erasmus of Rotterdam and produced portraits of notable individuals.

Albrecht Dürer died in Nuremberg, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential artists of the Northern Renaissance. His works and writings continue to be studied and admired today.