Who painted The Martyrs of Japan?

The Martyrs of Japan was painted by Jacques Callot in 1627.

Where can I see The Martyrs of Japan?

The Martyrs of Japan is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Martyrs of Japan?

The Martyrs of Japan is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

The Martyrs of Japan

Jacques Callot , 1627

The Martyrs of Japan is a print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1627 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Callot made this after hearing reports of missionaries killed in Japan in 1627.

This etching shows a group of men kneeling on a grassy hill. Soldiers with spears form a line behind them. Some men wear robes. One man in the center clutches a wooden cross.

Callot made this after hearing reports of missionaries killed in Japan in 1627. The artist used fine lines to show faces and clothing. The scene feels quiet, not violent.

If you like this, check out Jacques Callot (French, 1592–1635).

Overview

The Martyrs of Japan is an etching by Jacques Callot, created in 1627. It is a print held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a group of kneeling men on a grassy hill, with soldiers armed with spears behind them. Some figures wear robes, and a central figure clutches a wooden cross. The scene is a representation of missionaries martyred in Japan.

Technique & Style

Callot employed fine lines to render the faces and clothing of the figures, creating a quiet and contemplative atmosphere rather than a violent one.

History & Provenance

The work was created in response to reports of missionaries killed in Japan in 1627, which Callot had heard about.