Saint Matthew - Cornelis Visscher

A detailed 1650 engraving by Cornelis Visscher depicting Saint Matthew writing his Gospel, guided by an angel.

This engraving by Cornelis Visscher, dated 1650, depicts Saint Matthew in the act of writing his Gospel. The composition follows the traditional iconography of the Evangelist, who is shown with a quill in hand, guided by an angel positioned behind his left shoulder. Visscher, a master of the Dutch Golden Age, demonstrates his technical proficiency through the use of varied line weights and cross-hatching to define the textures of the saint's heavy robes, the weathered skin of his face, and the pages of the open book.

The print is a fine example of the printmaking standards in Haarlem during the mid-seventeenth century. Visscher was known for his ability to translate the tonal qualities of painting into the medium of engraving. The contrast between the light source and the deep shadows creates a sense of volume and presence. The inclusion of the angel provides a soft, youthful counterpoint to the rugged, bearded features of the saint. The inscription at the base, 'S. MATHEVS', along with the artist's signature, confirms the work as an original invention by Visscher, who also managed the printing and distribution from his workshop in Haarlem.

This piece reflects the period's interest in humanising religious figures through realistic detail. The focus on the physical act of writing, the inkwell, and the stacked books grounds the spiritual subject in a tangible, scholarly environment. The precision of the engraving ensures that even the smallest details, such as the individual feathers of the quill and the texture of the parchment, remain clear. This print is a representative specimen of the high-quality reproductive and original graphic arts produced in the Netherlands during this era, offering a clear view into the aesthetic priorities of the time.