Christ and Matthew – 19th-Century Engraving by A.H. Payne

This 19th-century religious engraving, titled Christus and Matthäus (Christ and Matthew), depicts Christ engaged in dialogue with the apostle Matthew. Engraved by A.H. Payne after a work by C. L. Portchinsky, the piece reflects the devotional style popular in Continental Europe during the mid- to late 1800s. Payne was an accomplished German-British engraver and publisher known for his Bible plates and finely rendered scriptural imagery.

The engraving is finely detailed, emphasizing the expressive faces and draped garments of the figures, and is printed on laid paper. It has toned with age and shows scattered foxing across the sheet, consistent with its 19th-century origin. The work is presented in a later 20th-century ribbed wooden frame with glass.

Details:

• Title: Christus and Matthäus (Christ and Matthew)
• Engraver: A. H. Payne (1812–1902)
• After: C. L. Portchinsky
• Medium: Engraving on laid paper
• Date: mid- to late 19th century
• Plate size: approx. 7 x 6 in.
• Frame size: approx. 12 x 10 in.
• Condition: Paper with toning and noticeable foxing, image remains clear; frame is later, serviceable but not original

Use & Context:

Devotional engravings such as this would have been collected by the faithful or displayed in small chapels and domestic interiors as reminders of Biblical teaching. The focus on dialogue between Christ and Matthew underscores themes of discipleship, vocation, and spiritual calling.