Artwork

Saint John

Saint John, by Anthonis Sallaert, ink, 1624
Saint John, by Anthonis Sallaert, ink, 1624

Saint John is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Anthonis Sallaert. It dates from 1624 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Saint John is a 1624 woodcut print on blue laid paper, attributed to the artist Anthonis Sallaert.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Saint John in a serene and unadorned setting, clad in simple attire, conveying a sense of calmness.

Technique & Style

Characterized by dense linework, the woodcut's visual impact is heightened by its unusual blue paper substrate, which enhances the contrast of the lines and imparts a softening effect to the overall image.

History & Provenance

Created in 1624, specific details regarding the print's ownership history and exhibition record are not provided in the available information.

Context

The use of blue laid paper for a religious woodcut was an unconventional choice during this period, distinguishing Sallaert's work from more traditional printing practices.

Legacy

While the broader influence of this specific work is not detailed, it reflects the artistic experimentation of its time, particularly in the technical aspects of printmaking.

Artist & collection

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