Artwork

The Temptation of Saint Anthony

The Temptation of Saint Anthony, by Jan Wellens de Cock, ink, 1522
The Temptation of Saint Anthony, by Jan Wellens de Cock, ink, 1522

The Temptation of Saint Anthony is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jan Wellens de Cock. It dates from 1522 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:verso, in brown ink at lower right: 1600. Geronimo Bosco. Inbentor. 4 Rs. de plata / en nel escurial

About this work

Overview

The Temptation of Saint Anthony is a 1522 woodcut on laid paper attributed to Jan Wellens de Cock or associated artists.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Saint Anthony surrounded by demons and strange creatures, conveying a sense of chaos and spiritual turmoil.

Technique & Style

The image is characterized by sharp black lines, bold contrasts, and a dense composition, typical of Renaissance woodcuts used for dramatic storytelling.

History & Provenance

Attributed to Jan Wellens de Cock or Pseudo Jan Wellens de Cock, a notname for anonymous artists associated with Antwerp or Leiden.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jan Wellens de Cock

Jan Wellens de Cock or Jan de Cock (c. 1460/1480 – in or before 1521) was a Flemish painter, woodblock artist and draftsman of the Northern Renaissance active in Antwerp. Recent discoveries and a re-evaluation of the…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Temptation of Saint Anthony?

The Temptation of Saint Anthony was painted by Jan Wellens de Cock in 1522.

Where can I see The Temptation of Saint Anthony?

The Temptation of Saint Anthony is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Temptation of Saint Anthony?

The Temptation of Saint Anthony is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Temptation of Saint Anthony?

Museum-quality prints of The Temptation of Saint Anthony are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.