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A Star Falls and Makes Hell to Open, by Jean Duvet, ink, 1551

A Star Falls and Makes Hell to Open

Jean Duvet

1551

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

A Star Falls and Makes Hell to Open is a 1551 ink by Jean Duvet, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Jean Duvet
When & what style?
1551 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This print shows a chaotic scene packed with figures and movement. At the top, a winged angel holds a star while others look upward. Below, a mix of people and demons scramble around a rocky landscape. The center has a small box with text that reads *"HIST CAP:6:ET 9 APOC."* The title hints this is about a biblical story—likely from the Book of Revelation. The artist used lines to build up shadows and texture, making everything feel busy and dramatic. Try looking up engraving to see how artists like this carved intricate details into metal plates.

About the artist

Portrait of Jean Duvet
Artist

Jean Duvet

Jean Duvet (1485 – after 1562) was a French Renaissance goldsmith and engraver, now best known for his engravings.

See the richer artist page

More by Jean Duvet

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