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The Martyrdom of Saint Barnabas

Jacques Callot

1634

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque Religious

Dominant colour

The Martyrdom of Saint Barnabas is a 1634 ink by Jacques Callot, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Jacques Callot
When & what style?: 1634 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This etching depicts a dramatic scene of martyrdom. In the foreground, a group of figures are shown in various states of distress, with some appearing to be in the midst of a violent struggle. The central figure, likely Saint Barnabas, is shown being attacked by a group of men wielding swords and clubs. The scene is set against a backdrop of classical architecture, with tall columns and ornate details. The overall mood of the piece is one of chaos and turmoil, with the figures in the foreground conveying a sense of desperation and fear. The artist's use of bold lines and dramatic shading adds to the sense of tension and energy in the piece. For more on the technique used to create this etching, look up drypoint.