Artwork

The Temptation of Saint Anthony [second version]

The Temptation of Saint Anthony [second version], by Jacques Callot, ink, 1635
The Temptation of Saint Anthony [second version], by Jacques Callot, ink, 1635

The Temptation of Saint Anthony [second version] is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1635 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Temptation of Saint Anthony is an etching on laid paper created by French artist Jacques Callot in 1635. It is one of over 1,400 etchings produced by Callot, who was known for documenting various aspects of life and exploring different subjects.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts Saint Anthony's spiritual trial, a theme Callot revisited from religious narratives. The scene shows the saint overwhelmed by a multitude of eerie creatures and shadowy figures, symbolizing his temptation in the desert.

Technique & Style

Callot employed sharp, jagged lines to convey a sense of chaos and unease, creating a nightmarish atmosphere. The use of dark lines and detailed textures adds depth to the composition, characteristic of Callot's skillful handling of etching techniques.

Context

As a printmaker from the Duchy of Lorraine, Callot's work was influenced by the Baroque style, evident in the dramatic and detailed rendering of the scene. The etching is part of a larger body of work that explores various themes, including religious subjects.

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.