Artwork
Saint Paul
Saint Paul is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Master FVB. It dates from 1495 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Saint Paul is an engraving created around 1495 by Master FVB, an anonymous early Netherlandish artist active between 1480 and 1500. The work is a religious print depicting the apostle in a contemplative pose.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving portrays Saint Paul, identifiable by his beard, long robe, and attributes: a book (symbolizing his writings) and a sword (alluding to his martyrdom). His introspective expression suggests deep thought or spiritual contemplation.
Technique & Style
Master FVB employed sharp lines to define the subject's features, clothing folds, and beard texture. The work features intricate cross-hatching, a technique using crisscrossed lines to create shaded areas and add depth without color, characteristic of late 15th-century Northern European printmaking.
History & Provenance
While specific ownership history is not provided, the engraving's style aligns with influences from Dieric Bouts and contemporaries like the Master of the Amsterdam Cabinet and Martin Schongauer, situating it within the broader context of late 15th-century Netherlandish art.
Context
Saint Paul reflects the religious themes prevalent in late 15th-century Northern European art. Its detailed, introspective style is typical of the period's printmaking, catering to the growing demand for religious imagery among the devout.
Artist & collection
Artist
Master FVB (active c. 1480 — 1500) was an anonymous early Netherlandish engraver. According to one tradition, the artist is identical to Franz von Bocholt, but there seems to be no evidence to support such a…
