Artwork
Jesus before Caiaphas
Jesus before Caiaphas is an ink print by the Baroque artist Wenceslaus Hollar. It dates from 1642 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Jesus before Caiaphas is a 1642 etching by Wenceslaus Hollar, a Czech-born artist who worked primarily in England. The print depicts a biblical scene in a detailed, black-and-white style.
Subject & Meaning
The etching shows Jesus standing before the high priest Caiaphas, surrounded by a group of agitated men in a dimly lit, brick-walled room. The scene is tense, suggesting a heated argument or interrogation.
Technique & Style
Hollar used etching techniques to create the print, allowing ink to sit in carved lines and producing a rough, textured appearance. The figures are drawn with sharp lines, contributing to the overall sense of tension.
History & Provenance
Wenceslaus Hollar was born in Prague in 1607 and later relocated to England, where he spent much of his career. He died in London in 1677.
Artist & collection
Artist
Wenceslaus Hollar (Czech: Václav Hollar (Czech pronunciation: ), German: Wenzel Hollar; 23 July 1607 – 25 March 1677) was a Czech engraver, etcher and painter.
