Head of Peter 1526

Albrecht Dürer created this drawing, Head of Peter, using primarily line to give shape to form. Dürer masterfully employs hatching and cross-hatching to define the contours of the head and beard. See how the density of the lines creates shadow, giving depth and volume to the figure. The lines are not merely descriptive; they are expressive, conveying a sense of texture and weight, particularly in the rendering of the beard and hair. Notice the circular composition - how the top of his head is echoed below with his beard. Peter’s downcast gaze and furrowed brow suggest a moment of introspection or sorrow. The image invites us to consider the psychological state of the subject. This is further accentuated by the limited tonal range. Dürer's Head of Peter shows his technical virtuosity but also his ability to infuse a sense of humanity and emotional depth into his work through the structural elements of line and form. Each element is carefully considered and deliberately rendered to evoke meaning.