St. Augustine 1660

Claude Mellan's "St. Augustine" is a 17th-century etching that showcases the artist's mastery of line. Mellan is known for his technique of creating intricate and detailed images using a single, continuous line. This print depicts the 5th-century philosopher and theologian St. Augustine in a moment of prayer, kneeling amidst a landscape. The composition emphasizes the figure's contorted pose and expressive features, highlighting the emotional depth of the saint's devotion. The meticulous detail of the lines, from the folds of his robes to the textures of the foliage, contribute to the sense of realism and depth in the image.