Melencolia I, one of Albrecht Durer's finest engravings, has topped Swann Auctions Galleries' Old Master through Modern Prints auction in New York.

The figure in Melecolia I is believed to be the artist himself, contemplating life after the death of his mother in 1514

The piece sold for $110,000 on May 1, within its $80,000-120,000 estimate. Along with St Jerome in his Study, and Death and the Devil - both also created in 1514 - Melencolia I is considered one of his master engravings, or "meisterstiche".

The example at auction is a superb, richly-inked impression known as the Meder II. With strong contrasts and no signs of wear, it was quickly snapped up by bidders keen to own one of the legendary engraver's finest works.

In January, Christie's held an auction dedicated to Durer's work, with all pieces consigned from a single private collection.