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Lot Essay
The theme of the ill-matched couple is a classic literary topos and became a popular subject for prints towards the end of the 15th century. Whilst most printmakers used it as an opportunity for caricature, Dürer's account of this inappropriate rendezvous is far more realistic and subtle. The old man is not ugly or disfigured, but is made to look slightly ridiculous in his pointy, fashionable shoes. He gaze is intense and lecherous, and whilst he gropes her with his right hand he reaches into his purse with his left. With an innocent smile she looks straight ahead, seemingly ignoring his advances, but she has opened her purse too and is ready to receive payment.
The old man's horse, lustfully rubbing its flank against a tree, has been seen as a reference to Jeremiah, who likened men to horses: They were as fed horses in the morning: every one neighed after his neighbour's wife. (Jeremiah 5.8)
The old man's horse, lustfully rubbing its flank against a tree, has been seen as a reference to Jeremiah, who likened men to horses: They were as fed horses in the morning: every one neighed after his neighbour's wife. (Jeremiah 5.8)