Artwork

Title Page for Holy Oyle for the Lampes of the Sanctuarie, John Clarke

Title Page for Holy Oyle for the Lampes of the Sanctuarie, John Clarke, by Thomas Cecil, ink, 1630
Title Page for Holy Oyle for the Lampes of the Sanctuarie, John Clarke, by Thomas Cecil, ink, 1630

Title Page for Holy Oyle for the Lampes of the Sanctuarie, John Clarke is an ink print by the Baroque artist Thomas Cecil. It dates from 1630 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Title Page for Holy Oyle for the Lampes of the Sanctuarie is a 1630 engraving attributed to Thomas Cecil, though signed by John Clarke. This densely composed print serves as a title page for a guide related to sacred lighting rituals in religious settings.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving illustrates a thematic guide for 'Holy Oyle' used in sanctuaries, depicting a central figure dispensing oil amidst a crowd, flanked by four men holding religious texts, and a boxed warning emphasizing the Holy Ghost's guidance in speech. Bible verses permeate the design.

Technique & Style

Executed with sharp lines and nuanced shading, the engraving demonstrates the artist's skill in achieving depth within miniature scenes. The overall style reflects the meticulous detail characteristic of early 17th-century engraving techniques.

History & Provenance

Created in 1630, the engraving is attributed to Thomas Cecil, despite the signature 'John Clarke'. Specific provenance details are not provided, highlighting the work's existence as part of a broader religious publication.

Context

This work contextualizes the importance of ritualistic lighting in 17th-century religious practices, with the engraving serving as a visual introduction to a guide on the subject. The inclusion of biblical references underscores its devotional intent.

Legacy

While not widely recognized beyond its functional purpose as a title page, the engraving exemplifies the artistic and technical standards of early 17th-century English engraving, particularly in religious publications.

Artist & collection

Artist

Thomas Cecil

Thomas Cecil (1555–1687) was an artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.