Saint Paul (?) or Saint Matthew (?)

Saint Paul (?) or Saint Matthew (?)

Israhel van Meckenem

1475

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This is a black-and-white drawing of a bearded man in flowing robes. He stands firmly on a wooden floor, holding a sword in one hand and a book in the other. His long hair and serious face give him a wise, strong look. The name "Maththous" is written above his head, which might be a clue to who he’s meant to be. The lines in the drawing are sharp and detailed, showing folds in the cloth and shadows. This is an example of engraving, a technique where artists etch designs into metal plates.

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