Artwork

Sts. Simon and Jude, Apostles; St. Narcissus; St. Marcellus; St. Quintin

Sts. Simon and Jude, Apostles; St. Narcissus; St. Marcellus; St. Quintin 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, depicts four saints in separate oval frames. The work showcases Callot's skill as a printmaker and his ability to convey detailed scenes within a small format.

Subject & Meaning

The etching features Sts. Simon and Jude, Narcissus, Marcellus, and Quintin, each paired with a secondary figure and associated with everyday tools or actions. The scenes emphasize the saints' earthly activities, highlighting their human aspects alongside their religious significance.

Technique & Style

Callot's use of etching allowed for precise lines and detailed textures, evident in the rendering of the figures' robes, tools, and architectural backgrounds. The simple yet effective composition creates a sense of movement and activity within the framed scenes.

Context

As part of Callot's extensive output of over 1,400 etchings, this work reflects his engagement with devotional themes and the visual culture of his time. The etching is characteristic of his broader religious imagery, which often featured detailed figures set against expansive or simple backgrounds.