Religion · 17th century
€ 480
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
with general age-related toning, light foxing, and minor edge wear. Original margins preserved. Please study images carefully.
Antique Biblical Engravings, Mortier Amsterdam – Acts & Apocalypse, c.1700
This rare and decorative set consists of three early-18th-century biblical copper engravings, each sheet engraved with two narrative scenes, published by Pieter Mortier in Amsterdam circa 1700. Together, the three sheets present a coherent visual cycle of six Old and New Testament episodes, framed within finely engraved ornamental borders and title cartouches typical of Dutch Baroque religious printmaking.
The engravings illustrate key biblical events with clarity and drama. The first sheet shows an interior miracle scene—likely a healing or resurrection—set within grand classical architecture, paired with a divine vision revealed from the heavens. The second sheet includes the baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch by Saint Philip, accompanied by a celestial apparition, and below the dramatic conversion of Saint Paul, struck down by divine light on the road to Damascus. The third sheet presents apocalyptic imagery from the Book of Revelation: a city consumed by flames under divine judgment, and an angel confronting a symbolic beast, representing the triumph of divine power over chaos and evil.
Mortier’s workshop was renowned for its clarity of line, balanced compositions, and ability to translate complex biblical narratives into visually compelling scenes. These engravings combine theatrical Baroque storytelling with refined engraving technique, making them both intellectually engaging and highly decorative. They were intended for both private devotion and cultured interiors, reflecting the strong demand for illustrated biblical cycles in the Dutch Republic around 1700.
Condition: Good, with general age-related toning, light foxing, and minor edge wear. Original margins preserved. Please study images carefully.
Framing tips: These prints display beautifully as a vertical series or in a balanced grouping. Use dark wood or ebonized frames with wide ivory mats to emphasize contrast and depth, or opt for thin black frames with generous mounts for a more modern presentation.
Special note: This is an original antique engraving, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The print is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Keywords: Pieter Mortier, antique engraving, biblical prints, Acts of the Apostles, Book of Revelation, apocalypse engraving, Saint Paul conversion, Ethiopian baptism, Dutch Baroque print, Amsterdam circa 1700, religious engraving, copperplate print, old master print, devotional art, angel scene, apocalyptic city, biblical scenes set, early 18th century print
Technique: Copper engraving
Maker: Pieter Mortier, Amsterdam, circa 1700
