Jacques Callot (1592 - 1635)
The Martyrs of Japan
Title
The Martyrs of Japan
Dating
ca 1627
Material/Technique
Engraving and etching on paper
Dimensions
Tryckyta 16,80 x 11,25 cm
Papper 17,00 x 11,40 cm
Category
Inventory number
G 130/1960
Acquisition
Gift of Karl Johan Gezelius, 1960
Display Status
Not on display at the museum
Description
26 PEOPLE HAVE BEEN CRUCIFIED OUTSIDE THE TOWN OF NAGASAKI
The first Christian missionaries came to Japan in 1549. They were Jesuits and recruited many converts, so many that the local rulers felt threatened. The Jesuit movement, which now comprised many Japanese, finally became such a threat to the authorities that they decided to stop its advance. In 1587, many Christian churches were destroyed, and in 1596, a large number of Christians were arrested and crucified, some as young as twelve years old.
The events shook Europe and many images of what had happened were spread over the continent. Callot probably made this print in 1627, the same year as the crucified Christians were beatified by Pope Urban VIII.
Signature/Inscription
Signature (Nere till vänster i plåten): Callot fec
Inscriptions (nedtill i plåten): Le Pourtraict des premier 23 Martire. . . .
Etikett/Stämpel (a tergo nere till vänster): GKM
Etikett/Stämpel (a tergo i mitten): N. M. UTG.
Etikett/Stämpel (a tergo nere mitten): B.S.
Inscriptions (a tergo nere till vänster): 130/1960
Inscriptions (a tergo nere till höger): S 683.
Exhibition History
Printed. Prints as collector's items, mass media and showpieces, Göteborg, Göteborgs konstmuseum, 14/03/2020 - 16/08/2020