De heilige Jakobus geneest een blinde 1776

Giovanni David created this pen and brown ink drawing, “The miracle of Saint James,” around 1770-1790. Born in Genoa, Italy, David spent much of his career producing reproductive prints of other artist’s work, a common practice at the time. Here, David brings a biblical scene to life, depicting Saint James healing a blind man amidst a bustling crowd. The architectural setting situates the event in a familiar, urban environment, making the divine intervention feel immediate. The expressions of awe and hope on the faces of the onlookers convey a sense of shared humanity, highlighting how faith and belief can bring communities together. Interestingly, David leaves the scene unfinished. This stylistic choice invites us to contemplate the incomplete nature of human understanding and the ongoing quest for enlightenment. The sketch-like quality underscores the immediacy and personal nature of the miracle, reminding us that even in grand narratives, individual experiences hold profound significance.