Who painted St. Jacques?

St. Jacques was painted by Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo in 1704.

Where can I see St. Jacques?

St. Jacques is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is St. Jacques?

St. Jacques is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

St. Jacques

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo , 1704

St. Jacques is a print by the Baroque artist Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo. It dates from 1704 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1704 by Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo, *St Jacques* is an early 18th‑century print now held by the Cleveland Museum of Art. The image shows a mounted figure in white robes, brandishing a flag, with a kneeling attendant below and a cherubic figure hovering overhead, all set against a stormy sky.

Subject & Meaning

The central rider is identified as Saint James, a common patron in Christian iconography, indicated by his pilgrim’s garb and the presence of a sword and flag. The kneeling companion, also armed, appears to acknowledge the saint’s authority, while the cherub adds a celestial endorsement, reinforcing the work’s devotional narrative.

Technique & Style

Executed as an etching, the print demonstrates Tiepolo’s skill in line work and tonal variation. The composition employs dramatic chiaroscuro and dynamic movement typical of the Baroque, with swirling clouds and a sense of upward thrust that heightens emotional intensity.

History & Provenance

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo, son of the renowned Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, produced the print during his early career. It entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection in the 20th century, joining other works that illustrate the Tiepolo family’s contribution to Italian printmaking.

Context

The image reflects the broader Baroque fascination with saintly pilgrimage and celestial intervention. By portraying Saint James in a dramatic, sky‑filled setting, Tiepolo aligns with contemporary religious art that sought to inspire devotion through theatrical visual storytelling.

Artist & collection

Artist

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo (August 30, 1727 – March 3, 1804) was an Italian painter and printmaker in etching. He was the son of artist Giovanni Battista Tiepolo and elder brother of Lorenzo Baldissera Tiepolo.