Caspar, after the "Three Magi" series by Jacques Bellange
Caspar was one of the three foreign Magi (or Three Wise Men) who, according to the Bible, traveled to Bethlehem to adore the newborn Jesus and to offer gifts. Caspar, the bearer of gold, was the oldest of the three. Traditionally the gift of gold signifies Christ’s kingship.
This print is copied in reverse from an etching by Bellange that represented Balthasar, a different king. However, as Bellange did not identify his figures by inscription, there is some uncertainty, not least because the copies by Merian, such as this print, are inscribed with identifications that contradict the usual iconography.
This print is copied in reverse from an etching by Bellange that represented Balthasar, a different king. However, as Bellange did not identify his figures by inscription, there is some uncertainty, not least because the copies by Merian, such as this print, are inscribed with identifications that contradict the usual iconography.
Artwork Details
- Title: Caspar, after the "Three Magi" series by Jacques Bellange
- Series/Portfolio: Copy after a series of the three magi by Jacques Bellange
- Artist: After Jacques Bellange (French, Bassigny (?) ca. 1575–1616 Nancy)
- Medium: Etching
- Dimensions: sheet: 11 5/16 x 7 5/16 in. (28.7 x 18.5 cm)
- Classification: Prints
- Credit Line: Bequest of Phyllis Massar, 2011
- Object Number: 2012.136.9
- Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints
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Jacques Bellange
Jacques Bellange
Jacques Bellange
ca.1575–1616
Jacques Bellange
1595–1616
Jacques Bellange
1595–1616
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