Artwork

Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa

Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1619
Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1619

Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1619 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa, a 1619 etching and engraving on laid paper by Jacques Callot, visually maps Christ's journey to crucifixion across a detailed cityscape.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates a religious route, likely the Via Dolorosa, with key sites marked: a gate (A), a valley, a hill (probably Golgotha, indicated by three crosses), and a sepulcher, tracing Christ's path to crucifixion.

Technique & Style

Callot's mastery of etching and engraving is evident in the intricate details and expansive landscape, showcasing his characteristic blend of precision and compositional breadth, hallmarks of old master printmaking.

History & Provenance

Created in 1619 by French Baroque printmaker Jacques Callot, this work is part of his extensive oeuvre of over 1,400 etchings, which often documented contemporary life and religious themes.

Context

Reflecting 17th-century European artistic and religious practices, the piece combines religious narrative with meticulous depiction of architecture and landscape, appealing to both devotional and aesthetic interests.

Legacy

As part of Callot's prolific output, Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa contributes to the enduring influence of his printmaking techniques and detailed, narratively rich compositions in the history of art.

Second Part of the Via Dolorosa
Second Part of the Via Dolorosa, Jacques Callot

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacques Callot

Artist

Jacques Callot

Jacques Callot (French: ; c. 1592 – 1635) was a baroque printmaker and draftsman from the Duchy of Lorraine. He is an important person in the development of the old master print. He made more than 1,400 etchings that…

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa?

Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa was painted by Jacques Callot in 1619.

Where can I see Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa?

Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa?

Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa?

Museum-quality prints of Four Parts of the Via Dolorosa are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.