Jacob Kainen
John Baptist Jackson: 18th-Century Master of the Color Woodcut
"John Baptist Jackson: 18th-Century Master of the Color Woodcut" by Jacob Kainen is a scholarly monograph likely written in the mid-20th century. This work provides an in-depth examination of Jackson's contributions to the art of color woodcut, a form that struggled for recognition in the history of printmaking. The book details Jackson’s life, alongside a critical exploration of the woodcut tradition and the evolution of techniques within that medium. The opening portion of the work introduces the reader to John Baptist Jackson, highlighting his lack of recognition as an artist despite his significant role as an innovator in the woodcut tradition. It establishes the context for Jackson's work, detailing how he pioneered color woodcuts and chiaroscuro techniques, which were often dismissed by critics. The narrative lays the groundwork for Jackson’s story, pointing out that he was a complex figure—energetic yet impractical—whose ambitions ultimately led to both creative achievements and financial struggles. As the author sets the scene, it is clear that this examination will also involve scrutinizing the perceptions of Jackson and his art through the lens of historical bias.