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.
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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
Print
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.