| |
ALBRECHT
DURER was born on May 21st, 1471. Durer was
probably the greatest German painter and printmaker
of his time doing most of his work during the
Renaissance era. Despite his humble beginnings
as a goldsmith, Durer had begun an apprenticeship
to the painter and printmaker Michael Wolgumut
in 1486. Beginning in 1490 Durer travelled widely,
including many trips to Italy.
During his visit to Venice on his second Italian
trip Durer was especially influenced by Giovanni
Bellini. Beginning around 1512, Durer became
portraitist to the rich and famous of his time,
including Emperor Maximilian, and Christian
II of Denmark. Other sitters included Jacob
Fugger and other prominent merchants, clergy
and government officials. His vast body of work
includes altarpieces and religious works, numerous
portraits and self-portraits, and copper engravings.
Durer had an impressive Italian influence to
his work and he was a very intelligent scholarly
man.
|
|