Artwork

The Virgin and Child in the Clouds with Six Saints

The Virgin and Child in the Clouds with Six Saints, by John Baptist Jackson, ink, 1742
The Virgin and Child in the Clouds with Six Saints, by John Baptist Jackson, ink, 1742

The Virgin and Child in the Clouds with Six Saints is an ink print by the Baroque artist John Baptist Jackson. It dates from 1742 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Virgin and Child in the Clouds with Six Saints is a chiaroscuro woodcut created by John Baptist Jackson in 1742. It is a print made from two blocks, printed in buff and black on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene religious scene: the Virgin Mary holds Jesus, surrounded by clouds and angels, while six saints below gaze up in reverence. The scene conveys a sense of calm and devotion.

Technique & Style

The chiaroscuro style is characterized by strong contrasts between light and dark, creating a sense of depth and volume in the figures. The use of two blocks allows for tonal contrasts, achieved through the buff and black inks.

History & Provenance

John Baptist Jackson, a British printmaker, worked primarily in Paris and Venice, and was known for his technical innovations in chiaroscuro woodcuts, often reproducing oil paintings.

Context

The print is associated with the Baroque movement, which is characterized by dramatic lighting and intense emotions.

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.