Artwork

Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister"

Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister", by Jacques Callot, ink, 1628
Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister", by Jacques Callot, ink, 1628

Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister" is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1628 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This etching on laid paper is the frontispiece for 'The Light of the Cloister', created by French printmaker Jacques Callot in 1628.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts a kneeling figure in prayer surrounded by three robed individuals, with a winged figure above, possibly symbolizing divine illumination. The Latin inscriptions 'LUX CLAUSTRI' and 'Obedientia Paupertas Castitas' frame the image, likely representing virtues such as light, obedience, and purity.

Technique & Style

The work is characteristic of Callot's style, which often incorporated detailed landscapes and figures. As an etcher, Callot was able to achieve a high level of intricacy in his compositions.

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 Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister"?

Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister" was painted by Jacques Callot in 1628.

Where can I see Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister"?

Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister" is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister"?

Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister" is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister"?

Museum-quality prints of Frontispiece for "The Light of the Cloister" are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.