Artwork

Discovery of the Criminal Soldiers

Discovery of the Criminal Soldiers, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1633
Discovery of the Criminal Soldiers, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1633

Discovery of the Criminal Soldiers is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1633 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Discovery of the Criminal Soldiers is an etching on laid paper created by Jacques Callot around 1633. It is one of over 1,400 etchings produced by the French artist, known for documenting contemporary life and military subjects.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a dramatic scene involving soldiers, likely reflecting Callot's interest in military imagery and the social realities of his time. The composition includes detailed backgrounds, characteristic of many of his prints.

Technique & Style

The work is an example of etching, a technique where a design is scratched onto a metal plate, allowing for detailed and textured imagery. The resulting print showcases Callot's skill in capturing complex scenes with multiple figures and a sense of tension.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacques Callot

Artist

Jacques Callot

Jacques Callot was a baroque printmaker and draftsman from the Duchy of Lorraine.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.