Artwork

Noble Woman with Fan

Noble Woman with Fan, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1622
Noble Woman with Fan, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1622

Noble Woman with Fan is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1622 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Noble Woman with Fan is an etching on laid paper created by Jacques Callot around 1622. As a prominent French Baroque printmaker and draftsman from Lorraine, Callot is renowned for his extensive contributions to old master printmaking, with a prolific output of over 1,400 etchings.

Subject & Meaning

The etching portrays a noblewoman of refined demeanor, directly engaging the viewer with her gaze. Her attire—a lavish dress with a large collar and puffed sleeves—and hairstyle, a bob, embody the elegance and refinement characteristic of Baroque aristocracy.

Technique & Style

Callot's meticulous etching technique imbues the work with depth through intricate details and textures. The woman's pose, with her head slightly turned and hands engaged with her fan and dress, showcases Callot's skill in capturing nuanced, everyday moments of the elite.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1622, this etching is part of Callot's broader documentation of 17th-century society, including soldiers, court life, and aristocratic figures. Specific provenance details for this piece are not provided.

Context

Noble Woman with Fan reflects the Baroque period's emphasis on detailed observation and the depiction of social hierarchy. Callot's work often provided insights into the lives of the nobility and the military, offering a glimpse into the era's social dynamics.

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.