What movement is St. Eligius; St. Agericus; St. Francis Xavier; St. Peter Chrysologus?

St. Eligius; St. Agericus; St. Francis Xavier; St. Peter Chrysologus is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

St. Eligius; St. Agericus; St. Francis Xavier; St. Peter Chrysologus

St. Eligius; St. Agericus; St. Francis Xavier; St. Peter Chrysologus is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1634 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This etching on laid paper, created by Jacques Callot around 1634, presents four small oval portraits of saints within simple borders against a light background.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts four distinct saints: St. Eligius at work, St. Agericus with a cross, child, and bird, St. Francis Xavier with staff, and St. Peter Chrysologus in contemplation. These religious images reflect Callot's practice of producing sacred alongside secular and military themes.

Technique & Style

Executed using the etching technique, which involves carving directly into metal plates, the piece showcases Callot's mastery of fine, sharp lines, characteristic of his detailed and prolific etching style.

History & Provenance

Part of Callot's vast output of over 1,400 etchings, this work was created during his active period in the 1630s. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

Emerging from the Baroque period, this etching represents Callot's contribution to religious art, contrasting with his also prominent themes of military life and courtly scenes.

Legacy

As part of Callot's extensive body of work, this etching contributes to his legacy as a prolific and skilled Baroque printmaker, influencing subsequent generations of artists.