Artwork

The Siege of Breda [plate 2 of 6]

The Siege of Breda [plate 2 of 6], by Jacques Callot, ink, 1628
The Siege of Breda [plate 2 of 6], by Jacques Callot, ink, 1628

The Siege of Breda [plate 2 of 6] is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1628 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Siege of Breda is the second plate in a six-part etching series by Jacques Callot, created in 1628 on laid paper. It is one of over 1,400 etchings produced by the artist, known for their intricate detail and documentary value.

Subject & Meaning

This etching depicts the 1624-25 siege of Breda, a significant military event, with a map-like representation of the city under attack. The scene includes detailed renderings of soldiers, forts, trenches, and the walled city, accompanied by labels identifying various positions.

Technique & Style

Callot employed a precise, scratchy line style to capture the intricacies of the siege. The etching technique allowed for a high level of detail, making the work resemble a strategic sketch or a documentary record of the event.

Context

The Siege of Breda was part of a larger series documenting a historical military event. Etchings like this were likely used to record battles and convey information about military strategies and outcomes during the 1600s.

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.