Artwork

The Hurdy-Gurdy Player

The Hurdy-Gurdy Player, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1622
The Hurdy-Gurdy Player, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1622

The Hurdy-Gurdy Player 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

The Hurdy-Gurdy Player is a print by Jacques Callot, a French artist from the Duchy of Lorraine, created around 1622 using etching and engraving techniques.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a man playing a hurdy-gurdy, wearing a loose coat and turban-like hat, with a tired expression. The detailed rendering of his clothing and instrument suggests a focus on everyday life.

Technique & Style

Callot employed a sharp, scratchy style to capture light and shadow, making the figure stand out against a plain background. The use of etching and engraving allowed for detailed lines and textures.

Context

This print is one of over 1,400 etchings by Callot that document life in his era, including scenes of ordinary people and detailed landscapes.

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.