Artwork

Peasant Woman with Basket on Head, Front View

Peasant Woman with Basket on Head, Front View, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1622
Peasant Woman with Basket on Head, Front View, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1622

Peasant Woman with Basket on Head, Front View 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

Peasant Woman with Basket on Head, Front View 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 documenting everyday life.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a peasant woman carrying a basket on her head, reflecting Callot's interest in the lives of common people. The subject is part of a broader oeuvre that includes scenes of soldiers, beggars, and other figures from lower social strata.

Technique & Style

The etching technique allowed Callot to achieve sharp lines, used here to convey the weight of the basket on the woman's shoulders and head. The simplicity of her clothing is also rendered through etched lines.

Context

Callot's work often featured scenes of everyday life, including people from various social classes. His etchings also encompassed religious, military, and landscape themes, providing a broad view of the world around him.

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.