Apocalypse - Albrecht Dürer

This print by Albrecht Dürer, titled Apocalypse, is a woodcut from his series depicting scenes from the Book of Revelation, published in 1498. The image shows the back cover of the book.

Albrecht Dürer's series of fifteen woodcuts, titled Apocalypse, was published in 1498. It depicts scenes from the Book of Revelation. Dürer created both the images and the text, printed together in book form, making it a landmark artistic achievement. The series reflects the anxieties of the time, with its themes of plague, war, and divine judgement resonating deeply with contemporary audiences. Dürer's innovative use of the woodcut medium allowed for a wide distribution of his art, contributing to his fame and influence. The image shows the back cover of the book. The cover is made of a light grey material, possibly parchment or treated leather. The surface has a mottled appearance, with subtle variations in tone that suggest age and wear. Three thin, light-coloured straps are attached to the cover, running horizontally across the surface. These straps appear to be made of a natural fibre, possibly linen or hemp. They are secured to the cover with small, rectangular pieces of the same material, creating loops or ties. The straps are not perfectly straight, adding to the organic feel of the cover. The overall impression is one of simplicity and functionality, reflecting the practical nature of bookbinding in the late 15th century.