Artwork

The Miraculous Draught of Fishes

The Miraculous Draught of Fishes, by Schelte Adams Bolswert, ink, 1622
The Miraculous Draught of Fishes, by Schelte Adams Bolswert, ink, 1622

The Miraculous Draught of Fishes is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Schelte Adams Bolswert. It dates from 1622 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Miraculous Draught of Fishes is a 1622 engraving on three sheets of laid paper, created by Schelte Adamsz. Bolswert, a Frisian engraver working in Antwerp, particularly within Rubens' workshop.

Subject & Meaning

This biblical scene likely illustrates the miraculous catch of fish from the Gospels, featuring Jesus and men in robes struggling with a boat and an overflowing net amidst turbulent waters and ominous skies.

Technique & Style

The engraving showcases meticulous detail and texture, characteristic of Bolswert's work in reproductive engravings after prominent artists, with notable depth in depicting the natural elements and the scene's dynamism.

History & Provenance

Produced in 1622 within Rubens' Antwerp workshop, the piece aligns with Bolswert's specialty in creating engravings based on works by major artists of the time.

Context

Part of the early 17th-century Antwerp artistic scene, influenced by the workshop of Peter Paul Rubens, reflecting the period's religious and artistic themes.

Legacy

As a reproductive engraving, it contributed to the dissemination of biblical imagery and the styles of prominent artists during the Baroque period, though its specific impact and reception history are not detailed in available information.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Schelte Adams Bolswert

Artist

Schelte Adams Bolswert

Schelte a Bolswert or Schelte Adamsz. Bolswert (c. 1586 – 1659) was a Frisian engraver who worked most of his career in Antwerp where he was one of the lead engravers in Rubens' workshop. He is known for his…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.