Artwork

Man with Sword

Man with Sword, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1617
Man with Sword, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1617

Man with Sword is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1617 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Man with Sword is an etching on laid paper created by French artist Jacques Callot around 1617. It is a representative work from his early period, showcasing his skill in detailed and expressive compositions.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts two men in elaborate, antiquated attire, one holding a sword and the other a feathered hat. Their stiff, detailed clothing and dynamic poses suggest a narrative or social context, characteristic of Callot's work.

Technique & Style

The print features intricate lines and textures, achieved through etching on laid paper. Callot's use of linework conveys a sense of movement, with the figures appearing to be in mid-action. The textured paper adds to the overall visual detail.

History & Provenance

Jacques Callot was a prolific printmaker from the Duchy of Lorraine, producing over 1,400 etchings during his career. Man with Sword is one of his early works, documenting scenes of social life with precision and detail.

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.