The raising of Lazarus, who is carried by three men at left, while his sister and Christ look on at right; from 'Theatrum Pictorium', after Pordenone

Art Historical Context

Behold *The Raising of Lazarus*, a dramatic etching and engraving from David Teniers the Younger's ambitious *Theatrum Pictorium* (ca. 1656–60). This reproductive print faithfully captures Giovanni Antonio da Pordenone original painting, depicting the biblical miracle from the Gospel of John: at left, three men carry the newly revived Lazarus, his body still shrouded; at right, his sister and Christ gaze on in awe and reverence. Engraved by Jan van Troyen, the image measures nearly 15 by 20 inches, showcasing the monumental scale suited to the Archduke Leopold Wilhelm's prestigious collection. Published in mid-17th-century Antwerp, *Theatrum Pictorium* was a groundbreaking art catalog, one of the earliest printed surveys of a princely cabinet, blending etching's fluid lines with engraving's precision for vivid detail—from Lazarus's limp form to the expressive faces. Pordenone, a Venetian Renaissance master known for his bold Mannerist compositions, infused the scene with emotional intensity, highlighting themes of faith and resurrection. This Met Museum treasure, gifted in 1937, invites visitors to ponder how prints like this democratized access to elite artworks, preserving Pordenone's vision for generations. A testament to collaborative artistry, it bridges 16th-century Italian drama with Northern European printmaking prowess.