The Abduction on a Unicorn

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The Abduction on a Unicorn

1516

Albrecht Dürer (German, 1471–1528)

This bizarre image has no obvious link to a known story. The uncommon depiction of a unicorn as a wild beast instead of one of beauty and serenity suggests a demonic theme, and has led some to interpret the scene as the abduction of the Roman goddess Proserpine by Pluto, god of the underworld. Curiously, the man’s expression as he gazes out at the viewer appears calm despite the violent nature of his action.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

The Abduction on a Unicorn

Date:

1516

Artist:

Albrecht Dürer (German, 1471–1528)

Medium:

Etching

Dimensions:

Image: 12 × 8 5/16 inches (30.5 × 21.1 cm) Sheet: 12 3/16 × 8 1/2 inches (30.9 × 21.6 cm)

Classification:

Prints

Credit Line:

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Derald H. Ruttenberg, 1966

Accession Number:

1966-98-1

Geography:

Made in Germany, Europe

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