Artwork
Saint Paul Baptizing the Eunuch
Saint Paul Baptizing the Eunuch is an ink print by the Baroque artist Sébastien Bourdon. It dates from 1640 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:upper right in image: Seb. Bourdon in. et fecit / L. Boissevin ex. cum privil Regis; below image in plate: Philippus Apostolus Angeli monti Eunicum Candacis Reginae / AEthiopu in itinere affecutu instruit de fide in Christum et Baptizat. / St Philippe Apostre adverti par un Ange se presente dans le chemin a l'Eunuque de la / Reine des Ethiopiens nomee Candace, et la yant instruit aux mysteres de la foy le baptiz; by later hand, lower left of mount in graphite: D. P. Gr. franc vol I pag 149 Nr. 30, 1r etat
About this work
If you want to learn more about this style, you could check out the work of another Baroque artist, like Rembrandt.
This painting shows a scene from the Bible. Saint Paul is baptizing a man, who is kneeling in front of him. They are by a river, and there are people watching from the riverbank. The sky is cloudy, and there is a tree leaning over the river.
In the foreground, there is a man on horseback, looking at the baptism. He is wearing a fancy outfit and has a sword at his side. There are also some other people standing around, watching what is happening.
The painting is an example of Baroque art, which was popular in Europe during the 17th century. If you want to learn more about this style, you could check out the work of another Baroque artist, like Rembrandt.
Overview
Sébastien Bourdon's 'Saint Paul Baptizing the Eunuch' is an etching on laid paper created in 1640. It is a print held in the National Gallery of Art in Washington.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a biblical scene where Saint Paul baptizes a kneeling eunuch by a river, surrounded by onlookers on the riverbank. A man on horseback, dressed in elaborate attire with a sword, observes the event from the foreground.
Technique & Style
The work exemplifies the Baroque style, characterized by dramatic and detailed representations, popular in 17th-century Europe. Bourdon's use of etching on laid paper showcases his skill as a printmaker.
History & Provenance
Bourdon, a French painter and engraver, was active in the 17th century. He also created notable works such as 'The Crucifixion of St. Peter', commissioned for Notre Dame Cathedral.
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Artist & collection
Artist
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.
