Solomon's Idolatry 1475 - 1538

Albrecht Altdorfer created this tiny print, Solomon’s Idolatry, using etching and engraving techniques. This work depicts a biblical narrative where King Solomon succumbs to idolatry, influenced by his foreign wives. Altdorfer, living during the Reformation, infuses the scene with commentary on religious authority and the dangers of straying from doctrine. The exoticized female figure becomes emblematic of temptation and the corruption of power. The print is more than a religious lesson; it's a reflection of anxieties around cultural exchange, gender roles, and moral leadership in the 16th century. It invites us to reflect on how power dynamics and cultural biases can influence even the most revered figures. Altdorfer’s work is a stark reminder of how personal choices can have profound societal implications.