Who painted Two Lovers?

Two Lovers was painted by John Baptist Jackson in 1743.

Where can I see Two Lovers?

Two Lovers is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Two Lovers?

Two Lovers is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Two Lovers

John Baptist Jackson , 1743

Two Lovers is an ink print by the Baroque artist John Baptist Jackson. It dates from 1743 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Two Lovers is a chiaroscuro woodcut print created by John Baptist Jackson in 1743. Printed from five blocks in shades of brown and gray on laid paper, it showcases Jackson's innovative approach to woodcut printing.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a tender moment between a man and woman, characterized by gentle facial contact and soft expressions. The figures, with dark curly hair and loose-fitting clothing, are set against a warm, earthy background that adds depth to the intimate scene.

Technique & Style

Jackson employed chiaroscuro, a technique emphasizing contrasts between light and dark, to convey warmth and intimacy. He used subtle overprinting and oil-based inks to expand the color range, achieving nuanced shading and texture.

History & Provenance

John Baptist Jackson, a British printmaker active in Paris and Venice, created Two Lovers by translating an oil painting into a woodcut. His work is notable for its innovative use of chiaroscuro and color range.