Artwork
Saint Bartholomew
Saint Bartholomew is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Hans Baldung Grien. It dates from 1519 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1519 woodcut, Saint Bartholomew, is a print by Hans Baldung Grien, a German artist known for his work in various mediums including printmaking, painting, and stained glass.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts Saint Bartholomew, an apostle, holding a knife and a book. The knife is associated with his martyrdom, as he was flayed alive. The detailed rendering of the saint's skin and expression conveys a sense of weariness or sorrow.
Technique & Style
Created using the woodcut technique, the print features bold lines and detailed textures. Baldung Grien's style is characterized by expressive detail and imaginative composition, evident in the intricate rendering of the saint's skin and the loose drapery of his robe.
History & Provenance
Hans Baldung Grien was a pupil of Albrecht Dürer, a prominent German artist. This work reflects Baldung Grien's engagement with both German Renaissance and Mannerist traditions, showcasing his distinctive style within the context of his broader artistic practice.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hans Baldung (1484 or 1485 – September 1545), called Hans Baldung Grien, (being an early nickname, because of his predilection for the colour green), was a painter, printer, engraver, draftsman, and stained glass…
