Artwork

Nun Embracing the Holy Cross

Nun Embracing the Holy Cross, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1628
Nun Embracing the Holy Cross, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1628

Nun Embracing the Holy Cross 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

Nun Embracing the Holy Cross is an etching on laid paper created by French artist Jacques Callot in 1628.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a robed woman, likely a nun, embracing a tall cross on a small patch of land near water, with a cityscape in the background. The simplicity of the scene belies a deliberate composition, with the woman's blurred face adding to the enigmatic nature of the image.

Technique & Style

Callot's etching technique allowed for detailed rendering of fabric folds and shadows, creating a sense of solidity in the scene. The use of lines to suggest texture and depth is characteristic of his style, which often combined detailed figures with expansive backgrounds.

Context

As part of Callot's extensive oeuvre of over 1,400 etchings, Nun Embracing the Holy Cross reflects his practice of documenting various aspects of 17th-century life, including religious subjects.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacques Callot

Artist

Jacques Callot

Jacques Callot was a baroque printmaker and draftsman from the Duchy of Lorraine.

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