Mortier, Dutch Baroque Passion of Christ Double Scenes, Engravings, 1700, Framed, Set of 3

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Dutch Baroque Passion of Christ, 3 Double-Scene Engravings by Mortier ca 1700 This powerful Dutch Baroque set comprises three early-18th-century … Read more Dutch Baroque Passion of Christ, 3 Double-Scene Engravings by Mortier ca 1700 This powerful Dutch Baroque set comprises three early-18th-century copper engravings, each sheet containing two narrative scenes from the Passion and final acts of the Life of Christ, for a total of six finely engraved biblical compositions. The engravings were published in Amsterdam around 1700 by Pieter Mortier, one of the most influential and prolific print publishers of the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The map is offered unframed, enabling custom framing to personal or interior preferences. Mortier’s religious engravings are known for their dramatic intensity, careful architectural staging, and refined line work. Produced for a learned European audience, these prints were intended both for contemplation and for display, translating complex theological moments into visually compelling scenes with strong emotional resonance. The first sheet centers on the Last Supper and its aftermath. The upper scene depicts Christ and the Apostles gathered at the table in a solemn, intimate composition, emphasizing ritual, foreknowledge, and sacrifice. Below, the narrative continues with a tense interior scene in which figures gather around a circular table, suggesting deliberation, betrayal, or confrontation, rendered with strong architectural depth and expressive gestures. The second sheet presents judgment and cosmic revelation. The upper scene shows Christ before an earthly ruler, seated in authority, with soldiers and attendants framing the moment of accusation and condemnation. The lower scene dramatically shifts scale, portraying a grand celestial vision with divine light, angels, and figures in motion, contrasting earthly justice with heavenly authority. The third sheet returns to the domestic and human scale of the Passion narrative. The upper scene again shows the Last Supper from an alternative compositional viewpoint, emphasizing fellowship and impending loss. The lower scene depicts an intimate interior moment of suffering and consolation, with Christ attended by figures expressing grief, compassion, and devotion, illuminated by soft interior light. Across all three sheets, the engravings are unified by their decorative engraved borders, title cartouches, and consistent proportions. The alternation between intimate interiors, formal judgment scenes, and expansive heavenly imagery gives the set a strong visual rhythm and narrative coherence. Complete groups of Mortier Passion engravings such as this are increasingly scarce and highly desirable for collectors of early Dutch religious prints as well as interior designers seeking authentic, museum-quality works with historical depth and emotional presence. The map is offered unframed, enabling custom framing to personal or interior preferences. Condition Report: Very good condition for early 18th-century engravings. Light age toning and scattered minor spotting consistent with age. Clear plate marks visible. Margins ample and suitable for framing. No significant tears or losses observed. Framing Tips: Striking when framed as a unified set of three vertical works. Dark walnut, antique black, or ebonized frames with generous ivory or warm off-white mats enhance the Baroque character and engraved borders. Ideal for a horizontal museum-style hang in a library, study, or refined interior. Technique: Copper engraving Maker: Pieter Mortier, Amsterdam, circa 1700 See less