“Male Nude with a Glass and Snake (Asclepius)” is an artwork attributed to Albrecht Dürer, created around the year 1500. This piece is executed with pen and ink and is part of the Northern Renaissance movement. It is categorized under nude painting (nu) and is currently housed in the Staatliche Museen zu Berlin in Berlin, Germany.
The artwork portrays a male figure standing upright in a contrapposto stance, which is a classical pose that indicates a relaxed state with weight shifted onto one leg. The figure is notably nude, allowing for a clear display of the human form. In his left hand, he holds a transparent object, likely representing a glass. Coiled around his right arm and extending to the ground is a serpent, which is symbolic of Asclepius, the Greek god of healing and medicine. The careful detailing of the musculature and anatomy is evident, showcasing Dürer’s skill in rendering the human body with precision and understanding. The background is minimal, focusing the viewer’s attention on the figure and the interaction with the snake and glass object. The study of the human form and the inclusion of symbolic elements reflect the artistic interests of the Northern Renaissance, where heightened realism and detail were pivotal.
