Dürer, Albrecht: Achievement
Achievement
Dürer's principal accomplishments were the elevation of graphic art into the realm of fine art, the evolution of the profession of artist above that of other artisans in Northern Europe, and a highly original realization of a unique artistic vision. In addition, he defined his figures, particularly in mythological scenes, with a superb sense of proportion. He also signed most of his work and made penetrating self-portraits throughout his life, revealing a consciousness of his individuality that was unusual in German art before his time. An equally talented draftsman and painter, he executed a vast number of woodcuts and engravings throughout his career. As a graphic artist, he achieved an unsurpassed technical mastery and expressive power, and his work has influenced generations of printmakers and draftsmen. As a theoretician, Dürer composed a treatise on human proportions, a work on applied geometry, and a treatise on fortifications.
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