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This is a drawing of mythological figures with marine creatures. The image depicts two figures often seen in mythology, appearing to be a merman and mermaid, interacting with large sea creatures which resemble fantastical fish. The merman is shown with a muscular build, holding a trident-like object, while the mermaid is reaching out with a vine or ribbon-like object. The water around them is suggested by a series of swirling lines. In the background, there is a small landmass. The figures and creatures are rendered in a detailed, textural manner, consistent with traditional engravings or woodcuts.
National Gallery of Art · Print
Arion and a Nereid
Albrecht Altdorfer
- Date
- c. 1520/1525
- Medium
- engraving on laid paper
- Dimensions
- sheet (trimmed to plate): 6.1 × 4 cm (2 3/8 × 1 9/16 in.)
- Classification
- Accession number
- 1943.3.428
- Credit line
- Rosenwald Collection
- Time span
- 1501 to 1550
- Department
- CG-E
Subjects and terms
- fish
- animal
- Violin
- Male figure
- Danube
- Sea
- Female figure
Provenance
Würtemberg [died 1841], Danzig (Lugt 2606). purchased by Lessing J. Rosenwald [1891-1979], Jenkintown, PA, 1929; gift to NGA, 1943.
NGA object ID 3640. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.