Artwork preview

The Babylonian Whore

Albrecht Dürer

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a scene depicting fantastical and dramatic elements. The drawing features intricate details showcasing ethereal figures, chaos, armored riders on horses in swirling clouds, a central figure wearing a crown on a multi-headed beast, winged figures flying above, a city in destruction with flames and crashing waves, and people in Renaissance-style attire observing the scene. The composition suggests a dynamic interplay between heaven and earth, chaos and order.

Artwork Details

Date
probably c. 1496/1498
Medium
woodcut on laid paper
Dimensions
3477 × 4803 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette