Click image to view full screen
St. John with Serpent in Chalice
✓ Authenticity guarantee · ✓ Specialist condition report · ✓ Insured worldwide shipping · ✓ Private-room viewing
According to legend, John the Evangelist was given a cup of poisoned wine that he drank without harm. As emblems of the tale, John’s chalice symbolizes the Christian faith prevailing over death, signified by the serpent. As a print, Meckenem's representation of Saint John like a sculpture in an architectural niche made it possible for more people to personally own a religious image that they might otherwise only have seen at a church.
| Artist / Maker | Israhel van Meckenem |
|---|---|
| Date | c. 1480–1500 |
| Culture / Origin | Germany |
| Medium | engraving |
| Dimensions | Sheet: 20.3 x 10 cm (8 x 3 15/16 in.) |
| Department | Prints |
| Type |
About the Artist
BiographyIsrahel van Meckenem (1440–1503) — Germany Printmaker and goldsmith (c.1445-1503).Israhel van Meckenem worked as engraver, goldsmith, copper engraver, graphic artist and publisher and is associated with Germany. Their documented life spans the years 1440 to 1503; born and died in Bocholt.Disciplinesengraver, goldsmith, copper engraver, graphic artist, publisherBorn1440, BocholtDied1503, BocholtNationalityGermanySources: Wikidata · Wikipedia Full biography →
Provenance & Source
Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.
Condition
A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.
Shipping & Collection
Fine-art shipping with climate control and full insurance to over 120 countries; collection by appointment.
Buying at Matchless Pieces
Register, verify your identity, and bid online or in a private room. Buyer’s premium and taxes are shown before you confirm.
