Artwork

St. Philip and James the Less, Apostles; St. Anthanasius; The Invention of the Cross; St. Pelagia

St. Philip and James the Less, Apostles; St. Anthanasius; The Invention of the Cross; St. Pelagia 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.

About this work

Overview

This etching on laid paper, created around 1634, is a work by Jacques Callot, a prolific French printmaker and draftsman. It combines multiple scenes featuring religious figures within oval frames.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts four distinct scenes: St. Philip and James the Less, St. Anthanasius, The Invention of the Cross, and St. Pelagia. Each scene features figures in antique attire, often with halos, staffs, or crosses, set against varied backgrounds including buildings and crowds.

Technique & Style

The etching showcases Callot's skillful use of line and shading to create depth. The technique of etching allowed for the detailed rendering of textures and the intricate depiction of the figures and their surroundings.

Context

As a Baroque artist from the Duchy of Lorraine, Callot's work reflects the era's artistic and devotional themes. His extensive output of over 1,400 etchings covered a range of subjects, from religious imagery to everyday life and landscapes.

St. Martin; St. Tryphon and Companions; St. Renatus; St. Didacus, Jacques Callot

Artist & collection

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…