“The Seven Trumpets Are Given to the Angels” is an artwork by Albrecht Dürer created between 1497 and 1498, during the Northern Renaissance. This piece is part of the “Apocalypse” series and is categorized within the religious painting genre. It is housed at the Staatliche Kunsthalle Karlsruhe in Karlsruhe, Germany.
In the intricate woodcut, we observe a religiously charged scene filled with dynamic figures and celestial occurrences. The composition is vertically divided into two main segments—the divine assembly above and the earthly realm below. In the heavenly section, seven angels are being given trumpets by another angelic figure emerging from billowing clouds around a mighty throne. Upon this throne sits an imposing figure, likely representing God, adorned in regal garments and radiating light, emphasizing His divine presence.
Below, the potential consequences of the angels’ trumpets being sounded are depicted through chaotic natural events. The earth appears to be convulsing with explosions, fires, and crumbling structures. In the foreground, a distinct angel stands with one foot on sea and one on land, holding a long staff which stretches up towards the heavens, further connecting the divine actions with their earthly impacts. The representation of water, land, and skies reeling from the sound of the trumpets reflects the apocalyptic themes as described in the Book of Revelation. The detailed work exemplifies Dürer’s masterful skill in conveying narrative through the medium of woodcut, a technique he significantly advanced during his time.
