Saint Barthelemy 1726

Etienne Brion created this print of Saint Bartholomew sometime in the 18th century. It offers a glimpse into the visual culture of religious devotion in France during that period. Prints like this one, readily available and relatively inexpensive, played a crucial role in disseminating religious imagery and reinforcing Catholic teachings among a wide audience. The figure of Saint Bartholomew, identifiable by the knife he holds, gazes heavenward. His association with martyrdom and unwavering faith would have resonated deeply in a society where religious identity was central. Note that the print includes the inscription "Voici un vrai Israélite sans déguisement et sans artifice" - here is a true Israelite without disguise or artifice. To truly understand this work, we might delve into the archives of religious orders or explore the patronage networks that supported artists like Brion. The social and institutional context is key to unlocking the full meaning of this image.