About this sheet
Set of Three Double-Scene Biblical Copper Engravings, Pieter Mortier, ca 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 episodes from the Old and New Testament, combining dramatic storytelling with classical architectural and landscape settings characteristic of late-17th- and early-18th-century Dutch religious printmaking. Mortier’s workshop was renowned for its clarity of line, balanced compositions, and the ability to translate complex biblical narratives into visually compelling scenes suited for both private devotion and learned interiors.
The first plate focuses on Old Testament narratives. The upper scene depicts a dramatic moment of conflict and pursuit set within a rugged landscape dominated by a tower or fortified structure, conveying tension and divine intervention. The lower scene shows a ceremonial or courtly biblical episode inside a grand architectural interior, with figures arranged in a theatrical, almost stage-like composition, emphasizing authority, ritual, and moral judgment.
The second plate centers on episodes from the life of Christ. The upper engraving presents Christ among a gathered crowd, engaging directly with followers and adversaries alike, rendered with expressive gestures and carefully individualized figures. The lower scene shows Christ brought before a seated authority, a moment of judgment and accusation, with strong contrasts between calm divine presence and human agitation.
The third plate depicts large-scale public and didactic moments. The upper scene shows a vast assembly of figures gathered before a city or temple complex, suggesting preaching, revelation, or collective witness. The lower scene is more intimate, portraying Christ teaching a smaller group beneath a tree in a pastoral setting, emphasizing reflection, instruction, and spiritual guidance.
Together, the six scenes form a coherent visual cycle that moves from conflict and authority in the Old Testament to teaching, judgment, and revelation in the New Testament. The engravings are unified by their elegant borders, consistent scale, and harmonious tonal range, making the set particularly suitable for display as a matched group in a scholarly interior, library, or refined religious setting.
Sets such as this were often acquired intact and are increasingly difficult to find complete. This example offers a strong decorative and historical presence, appealing to collectors of early religious prints, Dutch Golden Age publishing, and interior designers seeking authentic, museum-quality wall art.
Condition Report:
Overall good condition. Light age toning and occasional minor spotting consistent with early-18th-century paper. Plate marks visible. Margins ample and suitable for framing. No major tears or losses observed.
Framing Tips:
Highly effective framed as a complete set. Consider dark walnut or ebonized wood frames with generous ivory or warm off-white mats to emphasize the engraved borders. Display as three vertical pairs in a horizontal row, or as a two-by-three grid for a more monumental presentation.
Technique: Copper engraving
Maker: Pieter Mortier, Amsterdam, circa 1700
Keywords:
biblical engravings, religious prints, Pieter Mortier, Dutch engravings, Amsterdam publisher, Old Testament scenes, New Testament scenes, life of Christ, early 18th century prints, antique religious art, copperplate engraving, Baroque prints, devotional art, biblical narrative art, museum wall art, scholarly interior decor
