Saint Ignatius Loyola, standing and holding an open book (ca. 1623–33)
Original title: Saint Ignatius Loyola, standing and holding an open book
kurzbeschreibung
Schelte Adams à Bolswert engraved Saint Ignatius of Loyola around 1623–33 as a standing priest in precious vestments. This devotional print presents the founder of the Jesuits holding an open book and raising his hand in blessing.
Description
The saint stands tall, dressed in richly ornamented robes. His left hand holds an open book inscribed with the Latin words 'AD MAIOREM DEI GLORIAM'; his right hand is raised in blessing. Behind him emerge a cross and clouds, suggesting a heavenly realm. A radiant ground surrounds the saint and underscores his holiness. The layout feels clear and balanced, with lines and shading bringing out the texture of the fabric and the structure of the background.
Context
The Dutchman Schelte Adams à Bolswert was known above all for his reproductive engravings after paintings by Flemish masters. His print was made in the first half of the 17th century, when the Catholic Church spread images of saints to encourage popular devotion. Ignatius of Loyola, co-founder of the Jesuit order in 1540, was canonized in 1622, which led to more depictions of the saint. The inscription 'Ad maiorem Dei gloriam' (For the greater glory of God) is the well-known motto of the Jesuits and anchors the print in its order-specific context.
Impact
The viewer's eye is first drawn to the radiant light surrounding the figure and to the saint's calm, upright posture. The symmetrical arrangement and bright lighting evoke a solemn, devotional mood. The detailed rendering of the vestments and the heavenly elements behind give the image a dignified loftiness that invites veneration. Clear lines and a balanced layout produce a quiet, contemplative effect.
Technique
For this copper engraving, lines were cut into a copper plate with a burin. The process allows fine, precise hatching and high detail, especially visible in the folds of the fabric and in the background. Printing was done on paper; the sheet measures approximately 39.7 × 25.7 cm.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)