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Scripture
John the Baptist & Baptism of Christ, Pieter Mortier Engraving, ca.1700
Anno Domini MDCC1700
£195
$260 · €230
Original print, not a reproduction
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- Date
- 1700
- Sheet size
- 17.7 × 11 in (45 × 28 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Very good condition. Strong impression with wide margins. Minor toning and faint foxing at the edges, with small handling marks consistent with age. Central image sharp and well-preserved.
- Faith
- Christianity
- Collection
- Scripture
- Era
- 1700 to 1799, Mortier, Picart and the illustrated Bible
- Stock no.
- f_46664082
John the Baptist Preaching & Baptism of Christ, Pieter Mortier, ca. 1700
Original antique engraving from Histoire du Vieux et du Nouveau Testament, published in Amsterdam by Pieter Mortier around 1700. The plate illustrates two key events from the Gospels related to John the Baptist and the beginning of Christ’s ministry.
The upper scene shows John the Baptist preaching in the wilderness (Matthew III, 1 to 12). John, clothed in simple garments of camel’s hair, stands before a crowd of attentive listeners, raising his hand to proclaim the coming of the Messiah. He is shown with his traditional cross-staff, while men and women gather around him under the shade of trees. The engraving captures both the intensity of his message and the expectation of the people awaiting redemption.
The lower scene depicts the Baptism of Christ in the River Jordan (Matthew III, 13 to 17). John the Baptist pours water over Christ’s head as he kneels in the river, while rays of divine light descend from heaven and the Holy Spirit appears in the form of a dove. Figures on the riverbank witness the sacred moment, emphasizing its significance as the formal beginning of Christ’s public ministry.
This engraving reflects the fine craftsmanship of Pieter Mortier’s workshop, combining expressive biblical narrative with detailed natural and architectural settings. The imagery would have served both a didactic and devotional function, forming part of Mortier’s grandly illustrated Bible histories, which brought scripture vividly to life for 18th-century readers.
Condition report:
Very good condition. Strong impression with wide margins. Minor toning and faint foxing at the edges, with small handling marks consistent with age. Central image sharp and well-preserved.
Framing tips:
A double-aperture mount in soft cream or ivory will emphasize the two separate Gospel episodes. A dark wood or walnut frame will bring depth to the composition, while a gilt frame would highlight the divine light and sacred subject matter, giving the piece a striking devotional presence.
Technique: Copperplate engraving
Maker: Pieter Mortier, Amsterdam, ca. 1700
