Saint Martin, on horseback, giving his cloak to a beggar, angels overhead

Art Historical Context

This etching depicts the legendary act of charity by Saint Martin of Tours, who, as a young Roman soldier, cuts his cloak in half to share with a freezing beggar. The composition, with angels hovering above, underscores the divine significance of the gesture, a popular subject in Christian art that highlights themes of compassion and humility. Created between 1760 and 1800, the print is associated with Baldassarre Franceschini, known as il Volterrano, a Baroque painter, and Giuliano Traballesi. Rendered in etching—a technique prized in the 18th century for its ability to capture fine lines an...