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

Self-Portrait with a Bandage

1491-92
Pen drawing on paper, back side, 204 x 208 mm
Graphische Sammlung der Universitätsbibliothek, Erlangen

Dürer's self portrait with a bandage presumably dates from the first period of his journeys; it was sketched with rapid strokes, and Dürer's face with his inquiring gaze stands out. The hand gesture is reminiscent of the tradition of depictions of Christ suffering, of melancholy and sleep. An interpretation of melancholy fits in most readily with a self portrait in this manner.