A Rare 17th Century Engraving: Saint Sebastian on "Chain-Laid" Paper

This powerful 17th-century engraving captures Saint Sebastian in a moment of stoic martyrdom. A hallmark of Baroque intaglio, the work utilizes a sophisticated network of cross-hatching and burin work to define the contours of the male form against the rugged texture of the tree to which he is bound.

The subject of Saint Sebastian was the 17th-century artist's ultimate vehicle for demonstrating skill in depicting the human body. This plate is an excellent example of that tradition, balancing the divine grace of the saint with the visceral reality of the scene.

When viewed under transmitted light (light box), the support reveals itself to be a premium hand-laid paper. The distinct "chain lines" (the wider vertical gaps from the paper mold) and "laid lines" (the fine horizontal wires) are clearly visible and irregular, confirming a 17th-century date of manufacture. This tactile, organic structure is what gives Old Master prints their unique "bite" and atmospheric depth.

Dealer’s Comments

"This is a 'pure' collector's piece. While many 17th-century plates were reprinted in later centuries, the light box analysis of this specific sheet confirms it is a contemporary 1600s impression. The weight and texture of the laid paper are unmistakable. We’ve set it in a sharp, minimalist ebony frame to let the drama of the figure speak for itself. It’s a piece that carries the weight of history but looks incredibly 'at home' in a high-end modern interior."

Condition Report

Good Antique Condition. A robust and honest example of 17th-century printmaking. It shows characteristic signs of its 350+ year journey, which certify its age and authenticity.

When viewed under transmitted light, the laid paper shows some localised areas of thinning (small patches where the paper fibers are less dense).

There are two small holes in the margin, well away from the central figure. These have been stabilised and are virtually invisible when the print is against a dark backing.

The paper edges show minor fraying and "nibbling."

There is scattered foxing and uneven "browning" (toning) across the sheet. A more pronounced area of damp-staining is visible in the lower right corner, though it has matured into a soft tea-colored patina that blends with the antique paper.

The print has been safely float-mounted using acid-free hinges. This ensures that the irregular, "nibbled" edges—which prove its age—are visible to the connoisseur.

The new ebony-style frame provides a rigid, protective environment that prevents any further stress on the historic paper.

Framed using 100% acid-free, reversible museum-grade materials.

Measurement

Height:            53 cm /     20.9 inch

Width:             45 cm /     17.7 inch

Depth:             3.5 cm /     1.4 inch

Weight:           2.2 k.g. /    4.9 lbs