Barbara Dürer, the artist’s mother (1514)

This intimate and expressive portrait, created by the renowned German artist Albrecht Dürer, is of his mother, Barbara Dürer, drawn in 1514. It is one of the most poignant works in Dürer's extensive catalog of sketches and paintings.The drawing reveals Barbara Dürer as an elderly woman, her face marked with the lines of age and experience, giving us a glimpse into her character and the life she has lived. Her slightly tilted head and the direct gaze engage the viewer in almost conversational intimacy. Dürer’s use of delicate yet deliberate lines to contour her face and the draped clothing showcases his mastery in capturing human emotion and physicality with minimal yet impactful strokes.Barbara's headwear and attire reflect the typical fashion of the elder women of her time, adding a historical context to her personal depiction. The inscription at the top, presumably by Dürer himself, includes the date of the drawing and possibly comments on her age, suggesting her older stage of life during the time of this portrayal.This artwork not only contributes to the understanding of Dürer’s personal life and relations but also serves as a significant historical document reflecting the human condition and the artistic finesse of the early 16th century.