Miracle of the Loaves
Medium
Engraving on ivory laid paper
Dimensions
Sheet: 25.5 × 31.7 cm (10 1/16 × 12 1/2 in.)
Classification
engraving
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
268662
Art Historical Context
In the late 16th century, Dutch artist Jacques de Gheyn II crafted *Miracle of the Loaves*, an exquisite 1595 engraving depicting the biblical scene from the New Testament where Jesus multiplies five loaves and two fishes to feed thousands. Born in Antwerp and active during the Dutch Revolt, de Gheyn was a master of Northern Mannerism, blending intricate detail with elegant, elongated forms influenced by artists like Hendrick Goltzius. This print exemplifies his early prowess as an engraver, capturing the divine miracle's wonder through crowded figures, flowing drapery, and dynamic composition...
About the Artist
Jacques de Gheyn, II · 1565–1629
Jacques de Gheyn II (1565–1629) was born in Antwerp into an artistic family, receiving his earliest instruction from his father, Jacob de Gheyn I, a skilled glass painter, engraver, and draftsman. In 1585, the young de Gheyn moved to Haarlem, where he spent five formative years studying under Hendrik Goltzius, one of the most celebrated engravers of the Northern Renaissance. This apprenticeship pr...