Author Description

This true masterpiece by Albrecht Düre, the design of an arch of honour, measures no less than 3.5 x 3 metres. The work is a veritable cornucopia of symbols of power, beautiful ornaments and strange fabulous beasts. It impresses all viewers with its sheer size and wealth of detail. The many battle scenes, creatures and symbols instantly pique our curiosity. What is the meaning of all this? What messages was The Arch of Honour of Maximilian I created to convey? Albrecht Dürer created the Arch in 1515 as a commission from Maximilian I, emperor of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation. The print shows the emperor surrounded by symbols of countless virtues and talents. One example is a crane holding a stone in its claw - a reference to the emperor's ceaseless vigilance. We also find a picture of the famous Roman emperor Julius Caesar; Maximilian was keen to be associated with him. Exhibition: Statens Museum for Kunst, Copenhagen, Denmark (05.03.- 21.06.2015).