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The Promenade

Albrecht Dürerc. 1497

The Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art
Cleveland, United States

Balancing an hourglass on his head, Death stalks this fashionable couple strolling in the countryside. When Dürer created this print, figures of Death were moral reminders that life was brief, and they were also associated with the dangers of carnal desire. The improper placement of the man’s sword betrays his dishonorable intentions, while the woman’s bonnet signifies her married status. Their liaison is not innocent, but one of sinful infidelity.

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Learn more about this artwork.
  • Title: The Promenade
  • Creator: Albrecht Dürer (German, 1471–1528)
  • Date Created: c. 1497
  • Physical Dimensions: Image: 19.4 x 12 cm (7 5/8 x 4 3/4 in.)
  • Provenance: The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH
  • Type: Print
  • Rights: CC0
  • External Link: https://clevelandart.org/art/1953.139
  • Medium: engraving
  • State of work: I/II
  • Fun Fact: As if to reinforce the uncertain status of this couple, Albrecht Dürer portrayed the woman stepping on the hem of her gown.
  • Department: Prints
  • Culture: Germany, 15th century
  • Credit Line: John L. Severance Fund
  • Collection: PR - Engraving
  • Accession Number: 1953.139
The Cleveland Museum of Art

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