Artwork

The Betrayal

The Betrayal, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1631
The Betrayal, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1631

The Betrayal is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1631 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Betrayal is an etching on laid paper created by French artist Jacques Callot around 1631. It is one of over 1,400 etchings produced by Callot, who was known for documenting contemporary life and blending different themes in his work.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a tense scene of soldiers marching in a line, with one carrying a flag and another leading a sheep, set against a backdrop of trees, a rocky shore, and crashing waves. The title suggests a narrative, potentially linked to the symbolism of the sheep, although its meaning is not immediately clear.

Technique & Style

The etching showcases Callot's skill in capturing detailed landscapes and human activity within a single composition. The use of black and white emphasizes the textures and contrasts of the scene, demonstrating Callot's proficiency in the etching technique.

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.