Artwork

The Baptism of Christ

The Baptism of Christ, by Adriaen Collaert, ink, 1584
The Baptism of Christ, by Adriaen Collaert, ink, 1584

The Baptism of Christ is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Adriaen Collaert. It dates from 1584 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Baptism of Christ is an engraving on laid paper created by Adriaen Collaert around 1584. It is a print held in the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a crowded scene by a river, with a man in the water holding a staff, a robed figure pointing upwards, and a gathering of people on the bank. A hillside town with towers and spires is visible in the background, suggesting a biblical setting.

Technique & Style

The image is densely detailed, with a border featuring small animals and flowers. The engraving's texture suggests it was created using sharp tools to scratch the design into the paper.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Adriaen Collaert

Artist

Adriaen Collaert

Adriaen Collaert (1560–1618) was a Flemish artist, born in Antwerp.

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