Artwork

The Miracle of Saint Mark (left side)

The Miracle of Saint Mark (left side), by John Baptist Jackson, ink, 1740
The Miracle of Saint Mark (left side), by John Baptist Jackson, ink, 1740

The Miracle of Saint Mark (left side) is an ink print by the Baroque artist John Baptist Jackson. It dates from 1740 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Miracle of Saint Mark (left side) is a chiaroscuro woodcut on laid paper, created by British printmaker John Baptist Jackson around 1740. Characterized by dramatic lighting and a chaotic composition, the print depicts a pivotal moment in the saint's legend.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates a dramatic scene from the legend of Saint Mark, with figures in a dimly lit room reacting to a central figure apparently rising or floating. The emphasis on light and shadow draws attention to key elements, typical of religious prints of the time.

Technique & Style

Jackson utilized his innovative chiaroscuro woodcut technique, employing subtle overprinting with self-developed oil-based inks to achieve an expanded color range. The dramatic interplay of light and dark creates depth and highlights specific figures or actions.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1740 by John Baptist Jackson, who primarily worked in Paris and Venice, producing prints based on oil paintings. Notable for his technical advancements, including custom inks and, in some works, heavy embossing for enhanced depth.

Context

Part of a broader tradition of religious scene printing in the 18th century, Jackson's work reflects the era's emphasis on dramatic lighting in such compositions, often inspired by original oil paintings.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of *The Miracle of Saint Mark (left side)* are not provided, Jackson's contributions to the development of chiaroscuro woodcutting and his innovative printing techniques have influenced subsequent generations of printmakers.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Baptist Jackson

Artist

John Baptist Jackson

John Baptist Jackson (1701–1780) was a British artist, a woodcut printmaker of the eighteenth century.

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