The Writing Prophet (Saint John on Patmos)
1919
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1919
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This woodcut shows a robed figure sitting on jagged rocks, holding a scroll. The background is a wild tangle of swirling lines, like wind or waves. The figure’s face is blurred, with one hand raised as if speaking or gesturing. The chaotic lines might represent a storm or strong emotion. The artist used sharp contrasts between light and dark to create drama. Next, look up woodcut to see how this printmaking technique works.