Albrecht Dürer Der Apostel Philippus – Saint Philip 1523 26 122300 1124 European art; part 1

The engraving presents a male figure in profile, viewed from behind and slightly angled towards the viewer. He is depicted as an older man with a full beard and receding hairline, his hair styled in tight curls. The subject stands within a landscape setting defined by a rocky outcrop on his left and a suggestion of uneven ground beneath his feet.
The man’s attire consists of a voluminous cloak that drapes heavily over his body, its folds meticulously rendered to convey texture and weight. He holds an object – likely a vessel or dish – in his hands, positioned close to his torso. A tall staff topped with a cross is grasped in his right hand, leaning against his side.
The artist’s use of line work is particularly noteworthy. Dense hatching creates areas of shadow and depth, while finer lines delineate the fabrics surface and the contours of the figure. The meticulous detailing extends to the landscape elements; the rough texture of the rock face is conveyed through a series of short, intersecting strokes.
A small inscription appears at the lower left corner, bearing numerals that seem to indicate dates or possibly symbolic references. This element adds an air of formality and perhaps alludes to the work’s creation or intended purpose.
The composition evokes a sense of solemnity and introspection. The figures posture – his head turned slightly, his gaze directed beyond the viewer – suggests contemplation or remembrance. The staff with its cross is a clear symbol of faith, while the vessel he holds might represent an offering or a significant object from his life. The landscape setting, though sparsely detailed, provides a sense of grounding and connection to the natural world. Overall, the engraving conveys a portrait imbued with dignity and spiritual significance.