The Martyrdom of Saint Barnabas

Jacques Callot

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a figure rising towards the sky, surrounded by a crowd below. The central figure is enveloped by light and clouds. Below, several robed figures stand in a classical architectural setting with columns. In the foreground, individuals are in dynamic poses, some appearing distressed. The scene conveys a sense of divine intervention, using crosshatching for depth and texture. The composition suggests a moment of apotheosis or ascension.