Artwork

Shepherds Following Their Flock

Shepherds Following Their Flock, by Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, ink, 1655
Shepherds Following Their Flock, by Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, ink, 1655

Shepherds Following Their Flock is an ink print by the Baroque artist Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Shepherds Following Their Flock is an etching on laid paper created by Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione around 1655. It exemplifies the artist's work as a printmaker within the Genoese school of the Italian Baroque.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a rural scene of shepherds guiding their flock along a winding path, showcasing Castiglione's focus on everyday pastoral subjects rather than traditional biblical themes.

Technique & Style

The work features quick, sketchy lines and a textured landscape, achieved through etching techniques that create a sense of movement and depth. Shading is used to convey three-dimensionality, integrating figures and animals into the background.

Context

Castiglione was a pioneer of monotyping and worked across various mediums, including painting and drawing. His specialization in rural scenes marked a departure from more conventional subjects.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Artist

Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione (baptized 23 March 1609 – 5 May 1664) was an Italian Baroque painter, printmaker and draftsman, of the Genoese school.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.