Pyramus and Thisbe 1524 - 1534

Heinrich Aldegrever's "Pyramus and Thisbe" (1524-1534) is a striking example of Northern Renaissance printmaking. This small, circular engraving, depicting the tragic lovers from Ovid's Metamorphoses, showcases Aldegrever's masterful use of line and detail. The scene is rendered with emotional intensity, as Thisbe mourns over the lifeless body of Pyramus, while a lion lurks in the background, symbolizing the forces that conspired against their love. The intricate detail of the figures' clothing and the landscape adds a sense of realism and depth to the composition, making this a powerful and moving testament to the enduring power of love and loss.