H. Bernardus geknield voor een kruis 1655 - 1659

Claude Mellan's "H. Bernardus geknield voor een kruis" (1655 - 1659), housed in the Rijksmuseum, depicts Saint Bernard of Clairvaux kneeling in prayer before a crucifix. This highly detailed engraving, crafted in the Baroque style, uses a technique known as "single-line engraving," a masterful display of Mellan's artistry. The artwork's dramatic composition emphasizes the devout figure of Saint Bernard, contrasting his humble posture with the imposing crucifix in the background. This work exemplifies Mellan's ability to capture the spiritual devotion and intense emotions within a religious context.