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Saint Joseph Listening to the Angel's Counsel, by Sébastien Bourdon, ink, 1644

Saint Joseph Listening to the Angel's Counsel

Sébastien Bourdon

1644

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

Saint Joseph Listening to the Angel's Counsel is a 1644 ink by Sébastien Bourdon, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Sébastien Bourdon
When & what style?
1644 · Baroque
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This drawing shows a quiet moment between two figures. One is an older man with a beard, kneeling and looking up at a winged figure above him. The angel hovers near a building with columns, holding a scroll or book. The scene is detailed with crosshatching and shading, giving it a textured look. The angel’s calm gesture suggests guidance or a message. This work was made using a printmaking method that creates fine lines and depth. Next, look up etching to see how artists like Bourdon made prints like this.

About the artist

Portrait of Sébastien Bourdon
Artist

Sébastien Bourdon

Sébastien Bourdon (French pronunciation: ; 2 February 1616 – 8 May 1671) was a French painter and engraver. His chef d'œuvre is The Crucifixion of St. Peter made for the cathedral of Notre Dame.

See the richer artist page

More by Sébastien Bourdon

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