Artwork

Christ Driving the Money Changers from the Temple

Christ Driving the Money Changers from the Temple, by Léonard Gaultier, ink, 1578
Christ Driving the Money Changers from the Temple, by Léonard Gaultier, ink, 1578

Christ Driving the Money Changers from the Temple 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 Driving the Money Changers from the Temple is an engraving created by Léonard Gaultier around 1578. The print depicts a scene from the Bible, showcasing Gaultier's skill with precise linework.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving shows Jesus overturning tables in a crowded temple, surrounded by merchants and onlookers. The scene is framed by tall columns and arches, with distant buildings visible in the background. The image conveys a sense of chaos and turmoil.

Technique & Style

Gaultier employed cross-hatching to create detailed shadows and textures, adding depth to the black-and-white scene. His style is characterized by precise linework and formal figure compositions, aligning with the work of contemporaries like the Wierix brothers and Crispyn van de Passe.

History & Provenance

Léonard Gaultier, born in Mainz around 1561, was a French engraver active until his death in Paris in 1641. He primarily produced engravings, including religious subjects and portraits, often signing his work with variations of his name.

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.