Artwork
The Six Saints
The Six Saints is a print by the Renaissance artist Niccolo Boldrini. It dates from 1535 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Six Saints is a woodcut print by Titian, reproducing a section of his altarpiece for the Venetian church of Saint Nicolo ai Frari.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts six saints—Sebastian, Francis, Anthony of Padua, Peter, Nicholas, and Catherine—originally shown below a vision of the Madonna and Child. The image conveys a sense of intimacy, with the saints' simple and serious faces, some with long beards, and one holding a book.
Technique & Style
Carved by Boldrini, the woodcut features deep lines and strong shadows, giving it a painterly feel. The technique captures the texture of the rough paper, creating a tactile effect.
History & Provenance
The print was derived from Titian's altarpiece, with modifications, such as a revised pose for Saint Sebastian, making his body more articulated and his face filled with stoic pathos.
Artist & collection
Artist
Niccolò Boldrini (c.1500–c.1566) was an Italian engraver of the Renaissance. He was frequently confused with Nicola Vicentino. Boldrini was an engraver on wood, born at Vicenza in the early 16th century, and still…
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