Saint John holding chalice in left hand, book in right, eagle standing by left side
Original title: Saint John holding chalice in left hand, book in right, eagle standing by left side
kurzbeschreibung
This engraving by Marcantonio Raimondi, made around 1500–50, shows Saint John. In his left hand he holds a chalice, in his right a book; an eagle stands to his left. The sheet, in the first of two states, measures 20.2 × 13.5 cm.
Description
Saint John stands centrally in a simple robe, a crown inscribed 'IOANNES' on his head. His left hand grasps a chalice, his right a book; to his left stands an eagle. The background remains plain, with horizontal lines left by the printing process. Monochrome in shades of grey, the image appears in even light without visible shadows. Clear, detailed lines define the view, typical of an engraving.
Context
Marcantonio Raimondi, an Italian engraver of the Renaissance, is best known for his reproductions after works by Raphael. The sheet was probably made in the first half of the 16th century in Rome, where Raimondi was active. The pairing of John with chalice and eagle follows Christian iconography; the eagle refers to John's vision. The print likely served as a devotional image or as a model for further reproductions.
Impact
The layout is calm and balanced, with clear contours and fine detail. The monochrome palette and even distribution of light give the sheet a factual, almost graphic feel. The saint conveys a dignified, contemplative mood.
Technique
This work is an engraving, a process in which the design is cut into a copper plate. Printing with ink on paper produces the fine lines and hatching. The first state may differ from later impressions, for example in the depth of the engraving or in details of execution.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)