Artwork

The Miracle of Saint Mansuy

The Miracle of Saint Mansuy, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1621
The Miracle of Saint Mansuy, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1621

The Miracle of Saint Mansuy is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1621 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Miracle of Saint Mansuy is a 1621 etching by Jacques Callot, a prolific Baroque printmaker from the Duchy of Lorraine. This work exemplifies Callot's technical prowess and characteristic style.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a religious miracle attributed to Saint Mansuy, set amidst a bustling scene. A figure, possibly a bishop, revives a man lying on the ground, surrounded by a diverse crowd of onlookers in varied attire, conveying a sense of communal witness to the miraculous event.

Technique & Style

Executed on laid paper, the etching showcases Callot's mastery of sharp lines to evoke drama and movement. The detailed, expansive composition, with its interplay of figures, architecture, and landscape, aligns with the dramatic intensity of the Baroque aesthetic.

History & Provenance

Created in 1621, this etching is one of over 1,400 works by Callot, who was known for his diverse subjects, including religious themes, contemporary life, and landscapes. The specific provenance of this piece is not detailed here.

Context

The work reflects the Baroque period's emphasis on emotive and dynamic scenes. Callot's choice of a religious subject, rendered in a highly detailed and active environment, situates the piece within the broader artistic and religious currents of early 17th-century Europe.

Legacy

As part of Callot's extensive oeuvre, The Miracle of Saint Mansuy contributes to the artist's lasting influence on printmaking and the Baroque style, though its individual impact within his corpus is not specifically 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.