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Melancholia
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Melancholia
This etching shows a glum looking winged figure, a personification of melancholia, surrounded by a number of objects symbolising carpentry, alchemy, geometry and numerology. Date: circa 1514
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Media ID 32243188
© CLM Archive Collection / Mary Evans
1514 Albrecht Alchemy Carpentry Durer Etching Gallery Geometry Glum Personification Surrounded Symbolising Winged 1921 Melancholia Numerology
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative etching, titled "Melancholia," dates back to circa 1514 and is an enduring masterpiece by the renowned German artist Albrecht Dürer. The image presents a melancholic figure, depicted as a winged woman, who personifies the medieval humoral theory of melancholy. The figure is surrounded by a diverse array of objects that symbolize various intellectual pursuits, including carpentry, alchemy, geometry, and numerology. The melancholic figure, with her pensive expression and downcast gaze, embodies the deep introspection and contemplative spirit associated with this humoral imbalance. The presence of the wings signifies her elevated status as a divine being, capable of transcending the mundane world. The objects surrounding Melancholia offer insights into the intellectual pursuits of the time. The carpenter's square and compass represent geometry, while the hourglass and books symbolize the study of time and knowledge. The alchemical equipment, such as the crucible and the philosopher's stone, reflect the fascination with the transformation of matter. The numerological symbols, including the Hebrew letters and the Greek letters, highlight the significance of numbers in understanding the universe. This etching, part of the Mary Evans Prints Online collection from the National Gallery, Victoria (not to be confused with the commercial entity), is a testament to Dürer's artistic genius and his deep understanding of the intellectual currents of his time. The intricate details, the symbolic richness, and the emotional depth of this work continue to captivate and inspire art lovers and scholars alike.
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