Artwork

Passion Set: Title Page

Passion Set:  Title Page, by Jacob de Gheyn II, 1597
Passion Set:  Title Page, by Jacob de Gheyn II, 1597

Passion Set: Title Page is a print by Jacob de Gheyn II. It dates from 1597 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

One interesting detail is the use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth.

This image is a black and white engraving featuring an ornate oval frame with a man inside, holding a large cross. The frame is surrounded by cherubs and foliage, with a banner at the top bearing an inscription. The overall design is intricate and detailed, with fine lines and textures visible throughout.

One interesting detail is the use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth. This is evident in the way the light source appears to be coming from the left side of the image, casting shadows on the right side of the frame and the figures within it.

To learn more about this technique and its application in art, you might want to explore the work of Jacob de Gheyn II, the Netherlandish artist who created this engraving in 1596–98.

Overview

Jacob de Gheyn II's 'Passion Set: Title Page' (1597) is a meticulously detailed black and white engraving, housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art. The composition features a central figure within an ornate oval frame, adorned with cherubs, foliage, and a banner.

Subject & Meaning

At the center of the engraving, a man holds a large cross, suggesting a religious theme, likely alluding to the Passion of Christ. The surrounding elements—cherubs, foliage, and the banner with an inscription—enhance the devotional context.

Technique & Style

The engraving showcases de Gheyn II's mastery of intricate line work and texture. Notably, the piece employs chiaroscuro, with a light source positioned to the left, casting shadows that add depth and volume to the figures and frame.

History & Provenance

Created in 1597, the work is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. Specific details about its creation context or previous ownership are not provided in the available information.

Context

Emerging in the late 16th century, this engraving reflects the period's religious themes and the burgeoning interest in detailed, high-contrast printmaking techniques among Northern European artists.

Legacy

While specific influences or direct artistic descendants of 'Passion Set: Title Page' are not detailed here, it contributes to the broader legacy of religious art and the evolution of engraving techniques in early modern Europe.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacob de Gheyn II

Artist

Jacob de Gheyn II

Jacob de Gheyn II was a Dutch painter and engraver, whose work shows the transition from Northern Mannerism to Dutch realism over the course of his career.

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