DÜRER, Albrecht
(b. 1471, Nürnberg, d. 1528, Nürnberg)

Nuremberg and Venetian Women

1496-97
Pen drawing on paper, 241 x 160 mm
Städelsches Kunstinstitut, Frankfurt

This pen drawing is an eloquent example of Dürer's interest in costumes, which he here places side by side comparatively. The two women, one from Nuremberg and one from Venice, appear as if they were taking a stroll together in Venice. The lavish ornamentation and low neckline of the liberal, pretty Venetian costume contrasts with the modest, simple dress of the Nuremberg woman.