Artwork
The Four Prophets, Daniel, David, Jonas and Habakkuk
The Four Prophets, Daniel, David, Jonas and Habakkuk is a print by the Baroque artist Guillaume Château. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Four Prophets is a print on paper depicting Daniel, David, Jonas, and Habakkuk, based on a design by Raphael and executed by Rosso Fiorentino. Originally located in Rome's Church of Santa Maria della Pace, the large-format image spans two sheets.
Subject & Meaning
Each prophet is distinctively portrayed with symbols: Daniel accompanied by a winged figure, David holding a scroll with text, Jonas with another winged figure, and Habakkuk bearing a sign with text. Their robes and head coverings add to the individualized yet serene depiction.
Technique & Style
Contrary to the initial analysis, the work's style does not align with Baroque characteristics such as chiaroscuro, as it is actually a print based on Renaissance designs. The execution by Rosso Fiorentino suggests a style more akin to the Renaissance, with the warm beige background complementing the cool tones of the prophets' attire, creating a contemplative atmosphere.
History & Provenance
Originally housed in the Church of Santa Maria della Pace in Rome, the work was later misattributed to the Madonna del Popolo composition. It is correctly documented in Charles Le Blanc’s *Manuel de l’Amateur d’Estampes* (1854–6).
Context
Created from a design by the renowned Raphael and executed by Rosso Fiorentino, this print reflects the collaborative and inspirational dynamics among prominent artists of the Renaissance.
Legacy
While the print's direct influence is not extensively documented, its inclusion in *Manuel de l’Amateur d’Estampes* highlights its recognition within the broader corpus of Renaissance printmaking.
Artist & collection
Artist
French printmaker Guillaume Château carved religious scenes in the 1600s, turning Bible figures into sharply lit dramas on paper.
