Artwork

One of the Infantry Combats

One of the Infantry Combats, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1616
One of the Infantry Combats, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1616

One of the Infantry Combats is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1616 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

One of the Infantry Combats is an etching on laid paper created by Jacques Callot in 1616. It is part of a series of prints documenting military life and is characteristic of Callot's extensive work as a printmaker.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a chaotic infantry battle scene, divided into a main combat area and a foreground where onlookers watch from behind a barrier. The image captures the martial environment of the time, with detailed representations of soldiers, armor, and a cityscape background.

Technique & Style

The print showcases Callot's skill in etching, with intricate details on the soldiers' armor and the background cityscape. The level of detail achieved through etching highlights Callot's technical proficiency and his ability to capture expansive scenes.

Context

As part of a series on infantry combat, this etching reflects Callot's focus on military imagery, a common theme in his work. The print provides insight into the social and martial environments of the early 17th century.

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.