Saint James Major

Saint James Major

Hendrik Goltzius

1589

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white print shows an older man with a long white beard and curly hair. He’s resting his head on his hand, looking down with a serious expression. One hand grips a long staff, and his other hand holds a small book or scroll. Behind him, a wreath of leaves and a faint cross suggest a religious theme. The text below reads *"Qui conceptus est de spiritu sancto, natus ex Maria Virgine"*—Latin for *"He who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary."* This hints the figure might represent Saint James. Next, check out how engraving works to create such detailed lines.

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