Religion · 17th century
€ 230
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good condition. Strong impression with wide margins. Minor toning and faint foxing at edges, light handling marks consistent with age. Images remain crisp and detailed.
Presentation of Christ in the Temple & Prophetess Anna, Pieter Mortier, ca. 1700
Original antique engraving from Histoire du Vieux et du Nouveau Testament, published in Amsterdam by Pieter Mortier around 1700. The plate presents two Gospel scenes set in the Temple of Jerusalem, finely engraved in the baroque style of Mortier’s great biblical histories.
The upper scene depicts the Presentation of Christ in the Temple (Luke II, 22–35). Simeon, the devout elder, holds the infant Christ in his arms as beams of divine light descend from above. Mary kneels in reverence, while Joseph and others look on. The moment recalls Simeon’s prophecy that Christ would be “a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.” The classical architecture and solemn atmosphere emphasize the sacred significance of the event.
The lower scene shows the Prophetess Anna in the Temple (Luke II, 36–38). Anna, an aged prophetess, recognizes the infant Christ as the long-awaited Redeemer. Surrounded by elders and witnesses, she gestures with authority, proclaiming the fulfillment of divine promises. The detailed temple setting, with colonnades and arches, reinforces the grandeur of the occasion.
These engravings demonstrate Mortier’s ability to combine narrative clarity with expressive religious imagery. The figures are full of movement and emotion, while the architectural settings lend weight and dignity to the biblical accounts. As part of Mortier’s monumental *Histoire du Vieux et du Nouveau Testament*, this plate was intended to educate and inspire through both artistry and scripture.
Condition report:
Very good condition. Strong impression with wide margins. Minor toning and faint foxing at edges, light handling marks consistent with age. Images remain crisp and detailed.
Framing tips:
A double-aperture mount in cream or parchment tones will separate the two temple scenes while preserving the unity of the plate. A walnut or black wooden frame provides balance, while a gilt frame accentuates the divine light and enhances the engraving’s devotional presence.
Technique: Copperplate engraving
Maker: Pieter Mortier, Amsterdam, ca. 1700
