Saint John Summoned to Heaven

1546/1556

Jean Duvet

Associated Names
Jean Duvet

Artist, French, 1485 - c. 1570

This is a drawing depicting a complex, symbolic scene with numerous figures and mythical creatures. The composition portrays a scene of divine judgment or revelation. At the top, a central figure sits on a throne surrounded by various figures, some possibly angels, and mythical creatures like lambs and eagles. The central figure has a large halo and is surrounded by characters and beings with different expressions and gestures.

Below, there are crowned and robed figures, some with detailed headwear indicating positions of power. Clouds or smoke create the base of the scene, giving depth to the composition. Architectural elements are visible in the lower portion, suggesting a cityscape.

The drawing features intricate line work and shading, creating a detailed narrative landscape filled with symbolic elements. Light and dark contrasts enhance the drawing's intensity and drama. The work conveys a narrative rich in iconography, potentially inspired by religious texts.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet (trimmed within plate mark): 30.2 × 21.5 cm (11 7/8 × 8 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1947.7.45

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Eisler 1979, no. 41, State only

  • Series Title

    Plate 3 from the Apocalypse


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(William H. Schab, New York); purchased by Lessing J. Rosenwald [1891-1979], 1947; gift to NGA, 1947.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1949

  • Ten Centuries of Christian Art, Milwaukee Art Institute, WI, 1949, no catalogue.

1952

  • Etchings and Other Prints from the Rosenwald Collection, Randolph-Macon Woman's College, Lynchburg, VA, 1952-1953, no cat.

1962

  • Installation during Fine Art Festival, American River College, Sacramento, CA, 1962, no cat.

Bibliography

1979

  • Eisler, Colin. The Master of the Unicorn: The Life and Work of Jean Duvet. New York: Abaris Books,1979.

Inscriptions

"IOHA / NNES / DV / VET / FAC" recto, on plate, on double-tablet at lower center. "HIST / CAP 4 / APOC / ET 5" recto, on plate, on plaque at lower right. "arllal" [illeg?] verso, lower right margin, graphite, unknown hand.

Markings

"National Gallery of Art" verso, lower right, black stamped ink.

Wikidata ID

Q65077563

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