The Raising of Lazarus - John Smith of Chichester

A detailed etching by John Smith of Chichester depicting the biblical scene of the raising of Lazarus, rendered with fine cross-hatching and dramatic light.

This etching by John Smith of Chichester depicts the biblical narrative of the raising of Lazarus. The composition centres on the figure of Christ, who stands with an outstretched arm, gesturing toward the tomb from which Lazarus emerges. The surrounding figures, including the sisters of Lazarus, display varied expressions of awe and disbelief. The scene is set within a rocky, cavernous environment, with a distant architectural structure visible through an opening in the stone, providing a sense of depth to the otherwise enclosed space.

John Smith of Chichester was one of three brothers known for their work in the mid-eighteenth century. While the family is often associated with rural scenes, this work demonstrates an engagement with traditional religious iconography. The etching technique employs fine, hatched lines to build shadow and form, particularly within the dark recesses of the cave and the folds of the garments. The artist uses light to draw the eye toward the central interaction between Christ and the newly awakened Lazarus, while the peripheral figures remain partially obscured in the gloom.

The print reflects the stylistic conventions of the period, where artists often looked to Dutch masters for inspiration in both subject matter and technical execution. The cross-hatching is precise, creating a textured surface that defines the rugged terrain of the burial site. This piece offers a glimpse into the printmaking practices of the eighteenth-century British provincial art scene, where classical themes were interpreted through a personal, graphic lens. The work is a fine example of the period's interest in narrative clarity and dramatic lighting, achieved through the disciplined application of the etching needle on a copper plate.