Artwork
St. Ignatius de Loyola
St. Ignatius de Loyola is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Hieronymus Wierix. It dates from 1586 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1586 engraving by Hieronymus Wierix depicts St. Ignatius de Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order. The black-and-white print shows the saint in priestly attire, holding an open book.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving portrays Ignatius Loyola, identified by the text at the bottom as 'B. Ignatius Loyola,' founder of the 'Societas Jesu.' The 'IHS' symbol above his head is a Christian motif. The open book in his hands contains Latin text, signifying his devotion to scripture and learning.
Technique & Style
The work is characteristic of engraving, with lines and shading achieved by carving into metal. Wierix, a Flemish engraver, was known for his reproductive engravings, often after artists like Albrecht Dürer.
History & Provenance
Hieronymus Wierix created this engraving in 1586. As a member of a family of engravers, he contributed to the spread of Netherlandish art beyond the Southern Netherlands.
Artist & collection
Artist
Hieronymus Wierix (1553–1619) was a Flemish engraver, draughtsman and publisher. He is known for his reproductive engravings after the work of well-known local and foreign artists including Albrecht Dürer. Together with…
