The Martyrdom of the Apostles:  St. Thomas

The Martyrdom of the Apostles: St. Thomas

Jacques Callot

1632

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

This print shows a dramatic scene with a group of robed figures in a courtyard. One figure is being dragged by the feet while others stand around, some holding weapons. Above them, a winged figure floats in the sky, watching from above. The building behind them has tall columns and an arched doorway. The artist used deep shadows and strong contrasts to create tension. The scene looks chaotic, but the floating figure adds a sense of divine judgment. Next, look up chiaroscuro to see how this lighting technique works.

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