Artwork

The Entombment

The Entombment, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1631
The Entombment, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1631

The Entombment 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 Entombment is an etching on laid paper created by French artist Jacques Callot around 1631. It is one of over 1,400 prints he produced during his career.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a crowded and emotionally charged scene inside a tomb, where a group of figures gather around a body on a stone slab. The atmosphere is tense, with some figures reaching out and others standing back in shadow.

Technique & Style

Callot's etching technique allowed for sharp lines and detailed figures set against an expansive background, characteristic of his style. The use of contrasting light and shadow adds drama to the scene.

Context

The Entombment reflects the artistic trends of its time, with its intense and emotional depiction of a religious scene being typical of Baroque 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.