Artwork

The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests

The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Philip Galle. It dates from 1569 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Destruction of the Temple of Baal and the Slaughter of His Priests is an engraving on laid paper created by Philip Galle around 1569. It is a print that depicts a chaotic and violent scene.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving shows a tumultuous event with figures fighting and a building ablaze in the background. At its center, two robed figures stand on a raised platform, one wielding a sword, while others around them clash or flee.

Technique & Style

The image is characterized by sharp, detailed lines and extensive shading, achieved through techniques such as cross-hatching, which creates the illusion of three-dimensional forms on a two-dimensional surface.

History & Provenance

Philip Galle, a Dutch engraver and publisher active from 1537 to 1612, produced the work. Galle was known for both creating original designs and reproducing existing paintings as engravings.

Artist & collection

Artist

Philip Galle

Philip (or Philips) Galle (1537 – March 1612) was a Dutch publisher, best known for publishing old master prints, which he also produced as designer and engraver. He is especially known for his reproductive engravings of paintings.