Artwork

King and Queen in Consultation about the Turks [recto]

King and Queen in Consultation about the Turks [recto], by Jacques Callot, ink, 1612
King and Queen in Consultation about the Turks [recto], by Jacques Callot, ink, 1612

King and Queen in Consultation about the Turks [recto] is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1612 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

King and Queen in Consultation about the Turks is a 1612 etching on laid paper by French baroque artist Jacques Callot, depicting a monarchal consultation amidst military presence.

Subject & Meaning

The etching shows a king and queen in formal attire, engaged in discussion, flanked by attendants and with military elements (drum, spears) visible in the background, reflecting period concerns with rulership and military affairs.

Technique & Style

Callot employed fine etching techniques to achieve intricate lines, shading, and depth. The formal composition centers on the regal pair, with meticulous rendering of textures and details characteristic of his style.

History & Provenance

Created in 1612, this work is part of Callot's prolific output (over 1,400 etchings) documenting 17th-century life, including military, court, and social themes.

Context

Reflecting early 17th-century European anxieties, the work alludes to interactions between rulers and military threats, possibly referencing Ottoman Turkish expansions of the time.

Legacy

As part of Callot's extensive oeuvre, this etching contributes to the historical record of baroque printmaking, showcasing his ability to capture contemporary themes through detailed, expressive etching.

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.