Artwork

Officer with Feathers in Cap, Seen from Behind

Officer with Feathers in Cap, Seen from Behind, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1622
Officer with Feathers in Cap, Seen from Behind, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1622

Officer with Feathers in Cap, Seen from Behind 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

Officer with Feathers in Cap, Seen from Behind is an etching on laid paper created by Jacques Callot in 1622. It is one of over 1,400 etchings by the French artist, who was known for his detailed and nuanced depictions of various aspects of 17th-century life.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a man in period dress, shown from behind, wearing a feathered hat and gesturing to the right. His attire and pose convey confidence and authority, while the feathers add a touch of elegance and flair.

Technique & Style

The etching showcases Callot's skill with the medium, using line and shading to create a sense of volume and depth. The level of detail achieved through etching adds texture and nuance to the image, highlighting the artist's technical proficiency.

History & Provenance

Created in 1622, the work is part of Callot's extensive oeuvre of military imagery, documenting scenes of 17th-century life. As a printmaker from the Duchy of Lorraine, Callot played a significant role in advancing the etching medium during this period.

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.