Evangelist Marcus 1578

This 1578 engraving by Abraham de Bruyn depicts Saint Mark, one of the four evangelists, writing his gospel. The saint, shown in a seated pose, holds a quill pen in his right hand and writes in a book, which is propped open on a desk. At his feet, a lion, the traditional symbol of Saint Mark, is lying down. In the background, a cityscape with an archway can be seen, suggesting an indoor setting. The artwork is a fine example of Renaissance engraving, a popular medium during that era. This small but detailed print demonstrates de Bruyn's skill in capturing the likeness of the saint and his animal companion. The artwork, now in the Rijksmuseum, is a testament to the enduring power of religious imagery.