Artwork

Christ and the Woman Taken in Adultery

Christ and the Woman Taken in Adultery, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1635
Christ and the Woman Taken in Adultery, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1635

Christ and the Woman Taken in Adultery is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1635 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ and the Woman Taken in Adultery is an etching on laid paper created by Jacques Callot in 1635. It is one of over 1,400 etchings produced by the French artist, who was known for his detailed and narrative-driven compositions.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a biblical scene, showing a crowd surrounding a man on the ground, with a kneeling woman beside him. The presence of soldiers and onlookers adds to the drama, capturing a moment of tension and emotion.

Technique & Style

Callot's use of sharp lines and detailed etching technique conveys a sense of movement and drama. The black-and-white composition creates a dynamic scene, with expressive faces and poses that suggest a narrative unfolding in real time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacques Callot

Artist

Jacques Callot

Jacques Callot was a baroque printmaker and draftsman from the Duchy of Lorraine.

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