Artwork

Christ Denounces the Scribes and Pharisees

Christ Denounces the Scribes and Pharisees, by Léonard Gaultier, ink, 1578
Christ Denounces the Scribes and Pharisees, by Léonard Gaultier, ink, 1578

Christ Denounces the Scribes and Pharisees is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Léonard Gaultier. It dates from 1578 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Christ Denounces the Scribes and Pharisees is an engraving created by Léonard Gaultier around 1578. It is a representative work of Gaultier's style, characterized by precise linework and a formal manner.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a biblical scene where Jesus addresses a group of men, likely scribes and Pharisees, in front of a large architectural setting. The figures are dressed in robes and exhibit various reactions to Jesus' words.

Technique & Style

Gaultier's engraving is notable for its detailed and intricate execution, utilizing cross-hatching to achieve shading and depth. The work reflects Gaultier's formal and stiff style, which was comparable to that of contemporary engravers.

Artist & collection

Artist

Léonard Gaultier

Léonard Gaultier, or, as he sometimes signed himself, Galter, a French engraver, was born at Mainz about 1561, and died in Paris in 1641.

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