Martin Schongauer. Shield with a Unicorn, Held by a Lady. 1480–1490. Germany. Engraving in black on ivory laid paper In contrast to the wild man, woman, and child seen nearby ( and ), this engraving portrays a member of civilization. Only virgins were said to be able to attract and tame unicorns; by including the mythical beast in the shield, Schongauer emphasized the subject’s purity. Later Northern European artists such as Albrecht Dürer would frequently feature this type of grassy bench in depictions of tender moments between the Virgin Mary and Christ Child.

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Size: 2981px × 3000px
Photo credit: © WBC ART / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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