Open full image Pin

The Martyrdom of Saint Matthias

Jacques Callot

1634

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque Religious

Dominant colour

The Martyrdom of Saint Matthias 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

The painting depicts a dramatic scene of Saint Matthias' martyrdom. The saint is shown being stoned to death by a group of people, with one figure in the foreground holding a large stone. The background features a cityscape with buildings and a church steeple. In the foreground, the artist has included a variety of details, such as the expressions on the faces of the people stoning Saint Matthias and the folds of their clothing. The use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and drama in the scene. The painting is an example of the Baroque style, characterized by its use of dramatic lighting and intense emotions. The artist, Jacques Callot, was a master of etching and drypoint, and this painting showcases his skill in these techniques. To learn more about the artist's work, look up Callot, Jacques.