The Holy Apostle Simon Durer Engravings (1471-1528)

Here we observe a full-length depiction of a male figure, rendered in meticulous detail through etching and drypoint techniques. The subject stands firmly on a roughly textured ground plane, which abruptly terminates at the lower edge of the composition. He is positioned slightly off-center, leaning subtly to his left, creating a sense of relaxed posture rather than rigid formality.
The man’s age is evident in his weathered features: deep lines furrow his brow and frame his eyes, while a full, neatly trimmed beard obscures much of his lower face. His hair, similarly grayed, falls loosely around his shoulders. He holds a large, saw-like object horizontally across his body, the blade angled downwards. The meticulous rendering of the teeth on the saw emphasizes its potential for inflicting pain and suffering. His hands grip the tool with a firm, yet not overtly aggressive, hold.
The figure’s clothing contributes significantly to the overall impression. He is draped in an elaborate robe or cloak, heavily folded and rendered with intricate cross-hatching that defines both form and texture. The folds of the garment suggest movement and volume, adding dynamism to the composition. A lighter fabric peeks out from beneath the outer layer, hinting at a simpler undergarment.
The artist’s use of light and shadow is crucial in defining the figures physicality. Strong contrasts highlight the contours of his face, neck, and limbs, while deeper shadows are cast within the folds of his clothing. This interplay creates a sense of depth and three-dimensionality. The background remains largely unadorned, allowing the viewer’s attention to remain focused on the central subject.
Subtleties in the execution suggest layers of meaning beyond a simple portrait. The saw, an instrument typically associated with carpentry or demolition, carries connotations of sacrifice and suffering – a visual allusion to martyrdom. The mans gaze is directed downwards, suggesting humility or introspection rather than defiance. His posture, while relaxed, also conveys a sense of quiet strength and resilience. The overall effect is one of dignified solemnity, hinting at a life marked by hardship and faith. The inclusion of the date 1523 in the lower right corner provides a temporal anchor for the work, situating it within a specific historical context.