Faith was painted by Philip Galle in 1559.

Where can I see Faith?

Faith is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Faith?

Faith is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Faith?

Museum-quality prints of Faith are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Faith

Philip Galle , 1559

Faith is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Philip Galle. It dates from 1559 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower left, in image, in plate: Cock exc; lower center, in image, in plate: FIDES (Faith); lower right, in image, in plate: Brugel Inu; lower margin, in plate: FIDES MAXIMÈ Á NOBIS CONSERVANDA EST PRAECIPVE IN RELIGIONEM, / QVIA DEVS PRIOR EST POTENTIOR EST QVAN HOMO. (Above all we must keep faith, particularly in respect to religion, for God comes before all, and is mightier than man.) [translation from Nadine Orenstein, ed., Pieter Bruegel the Elder: Drawings and Prints. Exhibition catalogue. New York: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2001, p. 179.]

About this work

Overview

Faith is a 1559 engraving by Philip Galle, created during his early career in the Low Countries. It exemplifies the period's use of printmaking to disseminate religious themes.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a solemn scene within a church, where a man addresses a crowd of robed figures from a platform, holding a book. The atmosphere conveys reverence and contemplation, highlighting the importance of religious gatherings.

Technique & Style

As a reproductive engraver, Galle's work in 'Faith' would have involved translating an original painting into a detailed, line-based print. The level of detail in the crowd and church architecture suggests meticulous craftsmanship.

History & Provenance

Produced in Galle's early career, 'Faith' predates his later, more recognized work reproducing old master paintings as prints. The original painting it reproduces is not specified here.

Context

'Faith' reflects the Renaissance era's reliance on printmaking to spread religious imagery widely. It aligns with the broader cultural and religious practices of the Low Countries in the 16th century.

Legacy

While 'Faith' itself is not highlighted as a pioneering work, it contributes to the understanding of Galle's development as an engraver and the significance of printmaking in disseminating religious art during the Renaissance.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Philip Galle

Philip (or Philips) Galle (1537 – March 1612) was a Dutch publisher, best known for publishing old master prints, which he also produced as designer and engraver. He is especially known for his reproductive engravings of paintings.