Ill-Matched Couple 1485 - 1528

Albrecht Dürer’s “Ill-Matched Couple” (1485-1528) is a striking example of his mastery in the art of printmaking. This engraving depicts a young woman sitting beside an older, more experienced man. Their expressions and postures suggest a mismatch in their ages and social standing. The image highlights the contrast between youth and experience, a theme prevalent in Renaissance art. Dürer’s meticulous detail and masterful use of light and shadow are evident in the intricate folds of the woman’s clothing and the textured appearance of the man's beard. The presence of a horse and the distant cityscape create an idyllic background, adding depth and context to the composition.