Artwork
Male Saint Standing, with Folded Arms, Facing to the Left
Male Saint Standing, with Folded Arms, Facing to the Left is an ink print by the Romanticist artist John Skippe. It dates from 1781 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
John Skippe’s 1781 chiaroscuro woodcut presents a solitary male saint. The figure stands upright, arms crossed over his chest, and gazes to the left. Dressed in a flowing robe and crowned with a halo, he is set against a muted, earthy background that emphasizes his calm presence.
Subject & Meaning
The saint’s folded arms and contemplative expression suggest introspection and spiritual poise. The halo identifies him as a holy figure, while the serene posture invites viewers to consider themes of devotion and inner tranquility within a religious context.
Technique & Style
Executed as a chiaroscuro woodcut, the work employs layered printing to achieve strong light‑dark contrasts. Skippe’s careful shading and textural details render the robe’s folds and the figure’s facial features with a degree of realism uncommon in many prints of the period, enhancing the sense of depth.
History & Provenance
Created in 1781, the print is attributed to English artist John Skippe, known for his work in the chiaroscuro woodcut tradition. The piece remains documented within collections of 18th‑century British prints, though specific ownership records beyond its initial publication are limited.
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