Artwork

St. Felix; St. Joseph of Arimathea; St. Polycarpe; St. Matthias, Apostle

St. Felix; St. Joseph of Arimathea; St. Polycarpe; St. Matthias, Apostle 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 French artist Jacques Callot around 1634, features four saints in separate oval scenes. The print is one of over 1,400 etchings produced by Callot during his career.

Subject & Meaning

The four saints depicted are St. Felix, St. Joseph of Arimathea, St. Polycarpe, and St. Matthias. Each is shown in a distinct pose and attire, with attributes such as staffs, books, and spears that identify them.

Technique & Style

Callot's use of fine, precise lines creates texture and movement in the figures and their surroundings. The etching technique allowed for sharp, dark lines with controlled shading, contributing to the overall formal arrangement of the composition.

History & Provenance

Jacques Callot was a prominent printmaker from the Duchy of Lorraine, known for documenting various subjects including religious figures. This print is part of his extensive body of work, which helped shape the development of old master printmaking.