Three Genii

Three Genii

Albrecht Dürer

1505

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white print shows three winged figures standing on a grassy patch. The figure on the left holds a trumpet and a staff, while the one on the right plays a stringed instrument shaped like a harp. The third figure in the back has curly hair and wings but no instrument—just a relaxed pose. Notice how the artist used fine lines to create shadows and texture, giving the figures a three-dimensional look. This kind of detailed linework is typical of engravings. Want to see more? Look up engraving to learn how artists like Dürer carved intricate designs into metal plates.

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