Artwork

Saint John the Baptist

Saint John the Baptist, by Frederick Bloemaert, ink, 1640
Saint John the Baptist, by Frederick Bloemaert, ink, 1640

Saint John the Baptist is an ink print by the Baroque artist Frederick Bloemaert. It dates from 1640 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:recto: in block and in plate, at lower left: F. P.; verso: none
Markings
Marked:recto: none; verso: DvE collector's stamp in purple (not in Lugt)

About this work

Overview

Saint John the Baptist is a print created by Frederick Bloemaert in 1640, combining etching and chiaroscuro woodcut techniques on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Saint John the Baptist standing on a raised platform, staff in hand, gazing upwards. Smaller figures surround him, some kneeling or praying. The scene is rendered in two earthy brown tones, evoking a sense of drama and spirituality.

Technique & Style

The artist employed chiaroscuro, a technique characteristic of Baroque art, to create a striking contrast between light and dark. The use of shading makes the figures stand out against the textured background, achieved through a combination of etching and woodcut in two shades of brown.

Saint John the Baptist
Saint John the Baptist, Palma il Giovane

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Saint John the Baptist?

Saint John the Baptist was painted by Frederick Bloemaert in 1640.

Where can I see Saint John the Baptist?

Saint John the Baptist is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Saint John the Baptist?

Saint John the Baptist is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Saint John the Baptist?

Museum-quality prints of Saint John the Baptist are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.