1470
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Stoning of Saint Stephen is a 1470 ink by Israhel van Meckenem, a Renaissance work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This picture shows a chaotic scene with people fighting and falling. One man lies on the ground, arms outstretched. Others are grabbing at him or reaching up like they’re in pain. In the background, buildings look like a small town with towers and a church. Notice the rough lines and shadows—this isn’t painted, it’s carved into metal. The artist used tiny lines to build up dark areas, making it look three-dimensional. Try looking up engraving to see how this technique works.
Israhel van Meckenem (c. 1445 – 10 November 1503), also known as Israhel van Meckenem the Younger, was a German printmaker and goldsmith, perhaps of a Dutch family origin. He was the most prolific engraver of the…
See the richer artist page
