Artwork

The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests

The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests, by Philip Galle, ink, 1569
The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests, by Philip Galle, ink, 1569

The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Philip Galle. It dates from 1569 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:in image, lower center: Martinius Heemskerck Inventor; in plate, along lower edge: Precepit Rex ut proycerent de templo domini omnia vasa que facta fuerant / Baal et Delevit aruspices et eos qui adlebant incensum Ball. 4. Reg. 23. Cap.

About this work

Overview

The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests is an engraving on laid paper created by Philip Galle around 1569. It is a print that depicts a chaotic and violent scene.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving shows a tumultuous event with figures fighting and a building ablaze in the background. At its center, two robed figures stand on a raised platform, one wielding a sword, while others around them clash or flee.

Technique & Style

The image is characterized by sharp, detailed lines and extensive shading, achieved through techniques such as cross-hatching, which creates the illusion of three-dimensional forms on a two-dimensional surface.

History & Provenance

Philip Galle, a Dutch engraver and publisher active from 1537 to 1612, produced the work. Galle was known for both creating original designs and reproducing existing paintings as engravings.

The Slaughter of the Priests of Samaria
The Slaughter of the Priests of Samaria, Philip Galle

Artist & collection

Portrait of Philip Galle

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.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests?

The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests was painted by Philip Galle in 1569.

Where can I see The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests?

The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests?

The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests?

Museum-quality prints of The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.