Artwork

The Martyrdom of Saint Thaddeus

The Martyrdom of Saint Thaddeus, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1634
The Martyrdom of Saint Thaddeus, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1634

The Martyrdom of Saint Thaddeus 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

The Martyrdom of Saint Thaddeus is an etching on laid paper created by Jacques Callot around 1634. It is one of over 1,400 etchings produced by the French Baroque printmaker.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a chaotic scene with figures gathered around a building, a kneeling robed figure, and a floating person holding a cross. The dramatic and crowded composition conveys a sense of urgency and intensity, likely representing the martyrdom of Saint Thaddeus.

Technique & Style

Callot employed sharp lines to convey movement and emotion, characteristic of etchings from this period. The tangled figures and swirling clouds create a dynamic scene, showcasing the artist's skill with the etching technique, which involved using acid and needles to create detailed prints.

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.