The Miracle of the Sea

Unknown artist

Dürer mentioned his copper engraving “Das Meerwunder” in 1498 in the diary of his Dutch journey, from which Heller had one of the two still preserved transcripts (cf. JH.Msc.Art.1 #1 of the State Library Bamberg). In the foreground, a naked young woman who turns around in disbelief is carried away by a bearded Aquarius over the waves. The fact that this is a kidnapping is not only evident by the sign of the bearded water system and the firm grip on the upper arm of the woman, but also by the terrified gesticulating figures in the background. While an armed man is shouting and running to the water with his arms raised, the other women bathing leave the water. In the background of the scene rises a mountain landscape with a castle and fortress. The rich reception of the engraving is an expression of artistic appreciation.