Artwork

Saint John on the Island of Patmos

Saint John on the Island of Patmos, by German 15th Century, ink, 1485
Saint John on the Island of Patmos, by German 15th Century, ink, 1485

Saint John on the Island of Patmos is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1485 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Saint John on the Island of Patmos is a print depicting the saint on a rocky isle. The work is a woodcut, hand-colored with a range of hues.

Subject & Meaning

The image shows Saint John surrounded by trees and buildings, conveying a sense of isolation and contemplation. The scene is likely meant to represent the saint's exile on the island of Patmos.

Technique & Style

The print was created using a woodcut technique, with the addition of hand-coloring in various tones, including red lake, yellow, and blue. The use of multiple colors adds depth and texture to the image.

Artist & collection

Portrait of German 15th Century

Artist

German 15th Century

This 15th-century German artist carved vivid religious scenes into metal and wood, then hand-painted them in bright, symbolic colors.

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