Artwork

Pinacotheca Hamptoniana

Pinacotheca Hamptoniana, by Nicholas Dorigny, 1719
Pinacotheca Hamptoniana, by Nicholas Dorigny, 1719

Pinacotheca Hamptoniana is a print by the Baroque artist Nicholas Dorigny. It dates from 1719 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

You can learn more about this style by looking at the movement: Baroque.

This print is called Pinacotheca Hamptoniana.
It was made by Dorigny, Nicholas, in 1719.
The print is related to the Raphael Cartoons, which are large designs for tapestries that tell stories from the Bible, and this specific image shows a scene where Ananias is struck down.
The scene is an allegory, representing a moment from the Bible.
You can learn more about this style by looking at the movement: Baroque.

Overview

Pinacotheca Hamptoniana is a print created by Nicholas Dorigny in 1719. It is one of a series of prints related to the Raphael Cartoons, large designs for tapestries by the Italian Renaissance artist Raphael.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts the biblical scene of Ananias being struck down for lying to Saint Peter about his donation to the Church. This scene is part of a larger narrative illustrating the lives of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

Technique & Style

The print is a reversal of the original cartoon, showcasing Dorigny's skill as an engraver. It exemplifies the Baroque style, characterized by dramatic and emotionally charged scenes.

History & Provenance

The Raphael Cartoons, from which the print is derived, have been on loan to the museum since 1865, belonging to the British monarch. The printmaking tradition surrounding these cartoons spans over 450 years, with Dorigny's work being a significant milestone in this history.

Artist & collection

Artist

Nicholas Dorigny

This guy made prints that feel like travel souvenirs from another century. He carved religious scenes so crisp they look like photographs—except the robes are a little too dramatic. A friend once pointed out how he…