Portrait of a Man 1516

This portrait was drawn in 1516 by Albrecht Durer, using black ink on paper. Durer's masterful use of line and shading captures the man’s likeness with remarkable precision. The ink, applied with varied pressure and density, models the contours of the face, hat and clothing, creating a sense of depth and volume. Look closely at the intricate details of the man's hat and clothing, where Durer's skilled hand brings to life the textures of fabric and adornments. But ink on paper was more than just a medium for Durer, it was a means of engaging with the burgeoning print market of the Renaissance. By producing drawings like this, which could be reproduced as prints, Durer positioned himself within a network of labor, politics, and consumption. The beauty of this portrait lies not only in its aesthetic appeal, but also in the way it reflects the intersection of art, commerce, and society in Durer’s time.