Petrus, Johannes, Paulus en Johannes de Doper door andere heiligen omgeven 1571 - 1632

This engraving of Saints Peter, John, Paul, and John the Baptist, surrounded by other saints, was created by Antoni van Leest in the late 16th century. The work is striking for its use of densely packed figures within a shallow pictorial space, bordered by an ornamental frame. The composition is carefully structured with the main figures arranged in the foreground, creating a sense of immediate presence. Van Leest employs a sophisticated use of line to define the forms, with hatching and cross-hatching creating depth and texture. The figures, while numerous, are each rendered with individual characteristics. The choice of engraving as a medium allows for a high level of detail. The red ornamental frame around the central image serves not only as a decorative element but also as a structural device, containing the dynamic energy of the composition within a defined boundary. Ultimately, the engraving invites us to consider how the formal elements work together to convey religious and cultural meanings. The artwork's structure contributes to an ongoing dialogue between art, faith, and the viewer's interpretation.