The Massacre of the Innocents, from Opera Selectiora 1739

"The Massacre of the Innocents," a 1739 engraving by John Baptist Jackson, depicts a scene of chaos and violence. The print, executed in brown ink on paper, portrays the biblical story of Herod's order to kill all male infants in Bethlehem. Jackson's meticulous detail brings to life the frantic struggle of mothers and children as soldiers carry out the gruesome task. The composition, with its dynamic figures and dramatic lighting, creates a powerful sense of tragedy and despair. This artwork, currently housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, is a powerful example of the use of printmaking to depict historical events and religious narratives.