Artwork
Saint John the Baptist
Saint John the Baptist is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Battista Franco. It dates from 1554 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower left in plate: 19, Franco forma. Battista franco fecit; by later hand, lower left in graphite: 17
About this work
Overview
This print, Saint John the Baptist, is a work by Battista Franco, created around 1554. It is an etching with engraving on laid paper, mounted on blue paper.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a bearded man reclining on a rock, likely representing Saint John the Baptist. His facial expression is serious, and his attire is rendered in detail, with folds in his loose robe and texture in his hair and beard.
Technique & Style
Franco employed fine lines to achieve deep shadows and texture, particularly in the subject's hair and clothing. This technique was typical for creating the illusion of three-dimensional form in prints during that period.
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Artist & collection
