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Scripture
John the Baptist in Prison & Fall of the Tower of Siloam, Pieter Mortier, c.1700
Anno Domini MDCC1700
$260
€230 · £195
Original print, not a reproduction
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- Date
- 1700
- Sheet size
- 17.7 × 11 in (45 × 28 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Good condition. Strong impression with wide margins. Light toning and faint foxing to the outer edges, with minor handling marks consistent with age. Images remain sharp and detailed.
- Faith
- Christianity
- Collection
- Scripture
- Era
- 1700 to 1799, Mortier, Picart and the illustrated Bible
- Stock no.
- f_46667522
John the Baptist in Prison & Fall of the Tower of Siloam, Pieter Mortier, ca. 1700
Original antique engraving from Histoire du Vieux et du Nouveau Testament, published in Amsterdam by Pieter Mortier around 1700. This plate features two New Testament episodes, engraved in dramatic baroque style with strong narrative contrasts.
The upper scene depicts John the Baptist in Prison (Matthew XI, 2 to 6). John, confined in a dark prison cell, is visited by two of his disciples. From his seated position, he gestures toward them, instructing them to ask Jesus if he is the one who was to come, or if they should wait for another. The somber setting, with heavy architecture and barred windows, emphasizes John’s suffering and steadfastness, while the disciples’ attentive stance conveys their loyalty and concern.
The lower scene illustrates the Fall of the Tower of Siloam (Luke XIII, 4 to 5). In this dramatic episode, the tower collapses suddenly, crushing those beneath it. Figures are shown fleeing in panic, while others are trapped or swept away in the destruction. The background reveals a cityscape with classical buildings and arcades, suggesting Jerusalem. This event, referenced by Christ, is interpreted as a reminder of human mortality and the call to repentance.
Together, these engravings juxtapose themes of endurance in faith and sudden divine judgment. Mortier’s engravers skillfully combined architectural grandeur with expressive human figures, creating images that reinforced moral and theological lessons while also serving as striking visual art.
Condition report:
Good condition. Strong impression with wide margins. Light toning and faint foxing to the outer edges, with minor handling marks consistent with age. Images remain sharp and detailed.
Framing tips:
A cream or ivory double-aperture mat will emphasize the contrast between the intimate prison scene and the dramatic collapse of the tower. A walnut or black wooden frame will bring depth and seriousness, while a gilt frame enhances the grandeur of the architectural detail.
Technique: Copperplate engraving
Maker: Pieter Mortier, Amsterdam, ca. 1700
