Artwork

The Vision of Saint Bernard

The Vision of Saint Bernard, by Dirk Jacobsz Vellert, ink, 1524
The Vision of Saint Bernard, by Dirk Jacobsz Vellert, ink, 1524

The Vision of Saint Bernard is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Dirk Jacobsz Vellert. It dates from 1524 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

The date "1524" is written in the top corner, and the whole scene feels like a sacred moment.

This black-and-white print shows two figures kneeling in front of a fancy arch. On the left, a woman holds a baby while pointing upward. To the right, a robed man kneels with his hands together, looking down. Behind them, a detailed building with columns and a dome appears in the distance.

The woman’s face looks calm, but the man’s posture shows deep focus. The date "1524" is written in the top corner, and the whole scene feels like a sacred moment.

Next, check out how this was made using engraving.

Overview

The Vision of Saint Bernard is a 1524 engraving by Dirk Jacobsz Vellert, a printmaker. It is a black-and-white work that depicts a sacred scene.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving shows the Virgin Mary with the Christ child appearing to Saint Bernard, who kneels in devotion. The scene is set within an elaborate architectural framework, conveying a sense of reverence and spirituality.

Technique & Style

Created using the engraving technique, the print features detailed textures and shading, particularly in the rendering of the figures' clothing and the distant architecture. The level of detail suggests a high degree of skill in the engraving process.

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.