Artwork

The Massacre of the Innocents, Second Plate

The Massacre of the Innocents, Second Plate, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1622
The Massacre of the Innocents, Second Plate, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1622

The Massacre of the Innocents, Second Plate 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 Massacre of the Innocents, Second Plate is an etching on vellum created by Jacques Callot in 1622. It is one of over 1,400 etchings produced by the French printmaker during his career.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a chaotic scene of soldiers on horseback trampling a crowd, referencing the biblical narrative of the Massacre of the Innocents. A grand building and a fountain are visible in the background, amidst the turmoil.

Technique & Style

Callot employed shading to create stark contrasts between light and dark, heightening the drama and intensity of the scene. This technique was characteristic of etchings from the period, allowing for detailed and expressive renderings.

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.