Artwork

The Catafalque of the Emperor Mathias

The Catafalque of the Emperor Mathias, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1619
The Catafalque of the Emperor Mathias, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1619

The Catafalque of the Emperor Mathias is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1619 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Catafalque of the Emperor Mathias is a 1619 etching and engraving on laid paper by Jacques Callot, depicting the elaborate funeral monument of Emperor Mathias within a church.

Subject & Meaning

The print captures a solemn, ceremonial scene: a raised, draped coffin on a catafalque, surrounded by robed figures in a lavishly decorated church, conveying the grandeur and solemnity of imperial funerary rites.

Technique & Style

Callot's mastery of etching and engraving is evident in the intricate details: finely rendered folds of robes, shadowed facial expressions, and textured architectural elements, creating a sense of depth and realism.

History & Provenance

Created in 1619 by French printmaker Jacques Callot, this work is part of his extensive oeuvre (over 1,400 etchings) documenting 17th-century life, including ceremonial events.

Context

Reflecting Callot's interest in capturing contemporary life, this print belongs to a broader category of his works focused on historical and ceremonial subjects of the early 17th century.

Legacy

As part of Callot's prolific output, The Catafalque contributes to his legacy as a leading old master printmaker, influencing the development of etching and engraving techniques in European art.

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.