Who painted The Massacre of the Innocents?

The Massacre of the Innocents was painted by Jacques Callot in 1619.

Where can I see The Massacre of the Innocents?

The Massacre of the Innocents is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Massacre of the Innocents?

The Massacre of the Innocents is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

The Massacre of the Innocents

Jacques Callot , 1619

The Massacre of the Innocents 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 Massacre of the Innocents is an etching on laid paper created by Jacques Callot, a prolific French printmaker, around 1619. It is one of over 1,400 etchings produced by the artist, who was known for documenting a wide range of subjects.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a chaotic and violent scene from the biblical narrative of the Massacre of the Innocents, set in a grand courtyard surrounded by classical architecture. The artist captures the turmoil through a multitude of fleeing figures and charging soldiers on horseback.

Technique & Style

The etching showcases Callot's mastery of the technique, which involves using acid to carve into metal plates. The resulting print is characterized by sharp, energetic lines that convey a sense of frantic activity, with every inch of the composition densely packed with detail.