Artwork

St. Abundius; St. Galbertus; St. Marciana; St. Anacletus

St. Abundius; St. Galbertus; St. Marciana; St. Anacletus, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1634
St. Abundius; St. Galbertus; St. Marciana; St. Anacletus, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1634

St. Abundius; St. Galbertus; St. Marciana; St. Anacletus is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1634 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. St.

About this work

Overview

St. Abundius; St. Galbertus; St. Marciana; St. Anacletus is a c. 1634 etching on laid paper by Jacques Callot, a prolific French Baroque printmaker. This work exemplifies his religious output within a broader oeuvre of over 1,400 etchings, which also captured contemporary life and military scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The print presents four circular, narrative scenes depicting the martyrdom or devotional moments of four saints. Each vignette conveys a distinct dramatic episode through simple yet potent imagery, underscoring themes of faith and sacrifice.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, the piece showcases Callot's mastery of the technique, characterized by sharp lines and deep, expressive shading. The stark, almost sketchy quality enhances the emotional intensity of the depicted scenes.

History & Provenance

Created around 1634, this etching reflects Callot's engagement with both religious devotion and the technical advancements of Old Master printmaking. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

Within Callot's corpus, this work sits alongside other religious prints, highlighting his ability to balance devotional themes with innovative printmaking practices prevalent during the Baroque period.

Legacy

As part of Callot's extensive body of work, this etching contributes to his legacy as a versatile and influential Baroque printmaker, though its individual impact within his oeuvre is not distinctly highlighted.

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.