The Sudarium

Artist Claude Mellan (French, 1598 - 1688)

Titles

Veil of St. Veronica

Date1649

MediumEngraving

DimensionsImage: 16 5/8 × 12 9/16 in. (42.3 × 31.9 cm) Sheet: 19 × 13 7/16 in. (48.3 × 34.2 cm)

Credit LineGift of Karen and Robert Hoehn

CultureFrench

Catalogue raisonnéMontaiglon, 25

Object numberPC2015.07.04

ClassificationsPrint Collection

DescriptionImpression of Jesus Christ's face crowned with thorns on St. Veronica's veil. Created by etching one continuous spiraling line, using differing value of the line to create the image. At the bottom of the veil, an inscription reads, "FORMATVR VNICV VNA" in large block letters.
InterpretationsThis virtuoso engraving represents the cloth that Saint Veronica used to wipe Christ’s face as he carried the cross. The cloth is called a sudarium, a contact relic that acted almost like a print by holding an impression of Christ’s features. Claude Mellan engraved Christ’s portrait in one seemingly continuous line. The spiral from the center of his nose swirls outward; the line swells and narrows to create shade and texture. Wall Label for "Press/Process: The Art of Prints," Hoehn Family Galleries, Spring 2019

This record has been reviewed by University Galleries staff but may be incomplete or contain errors. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. For any inquiries about the information listed, please email galleries@sandiego.edu.