What movement is St. Wenceslas; St. Michael, Archangel; The Guardian Angel; St. Jerome?

St. Wenceslas; St. Michael, Archangel; The Guardian Angel; St. Jerome is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

St. Wenceslas; St. Michael, Archangel; The Guardian Angel; St. Jerome

St. Wenceslas; St. Michael, Archangel; The Guardian Angel; St. Jerome 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 around 1634 by French artist Jacques Callot, presents four distinct oval scenes within a single composition.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts four saints: St. Wenceslas on horseback, St. Michael vanquishing a dragon, a Guardian Angel guiding a figure, and St. Jerome in contemplation. These religious subjects reflect Callot's engagement with spiritual themes amidst his broader documentation of 17th-century life.

Technique & Style

The etching is characterized by intricate detail and fine lines, which create depth and texture. The oval format and arrangement of the scenes contribute to a balanced composition. Callot's use of etching showcases his technical skill and adds sophistication to the work.

History & Provenance

Jacques Callot, a prolific artist from the Duchy of Lorraine, produced over 1,400 etchings during his career, including this work. His etchings documented a wide range of subjects, from soldiers and court life to landscapes and religious themes.