MADRID, SPAIN.- The Museo del Prado presents today Dürer. Masterpieces from the Albertina, on view through May 29, 2005. This will be a unique opportunity to see most of the collection of works by Albrecht Dürer in the Albertina in Vienna, exhibited for the first time in Spain. The Albertina houses the world's greatest collection of prints and drawings by the artist.
The exhibition is an exceptional event as it represents the first time that the Albertina has lent such a large number of works by the artist abroad: a total of 58 drawings and 27 prints that are normally not on display, only coinciding with temporary exhibitions. They include masterpieces of Dürer's graphic art, offering the visitor a complete overview of his career, displayed both chronologically and thematically.
The selection of works on view allows for an appreciation of the different areas in which Dürer worked, as well as the outstanding technical mastery evident in his work in a wide variety of techniques. These include silverpoint drawing, pencil, pen, colour watercolour, woodcuts, engravings, and oil painting on panel.
In addition, the exhibition will feature the four paintings in the Prado's own collection by the artist: Adam and Eve, Self-portrait, and Portrait of an unknown Sitter. Each will play a prominent role within the presentation and argument of the exhibition.