Who painted The Siege of La Rochelle: Plate 1?

The Siege of La Rochelle: Plate 1 was painted by Jacques Callot in 1629.

Where can I see The Siege of La Rochelle: Plate 1?

The Siege of La Rochelle: Plate 1 is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Siege of La Rochelle: Plate 1?

The Siege of La Rochelle: Plate 1 is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

The Siege of La Rochelle: Plate 1

Jacques Callot , 1629

The Siege of La Rochelle: Plate 1 is a print by the Baroque artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1629 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Look up Jacques Callot (French, 1592–1635) to see more of his battle prints.

This etching shows soldiers swarming over a walled city. Cannons blast from below while buildings smolder. Troops climb ladders, ropes tight in their fists.

Callot made this during a real 1627–28 siege. He carved tiny figures into metal plates, then printed them. Each soldier is smaller than your fingernail—yet you still see their fear.

The scene feels like a snapshot from war. Look up Jacques Callot (French, 1592–1635) to see more of his battle prints.

Overview

The Siege of La Rochelle: Plate 1 is an etching by Jacques Callot, dated 1629, currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. The work depicts a chaotic battle scene during the siege of a walled city.

Subject & Meaning

The etching illustrates the intense moment of a siege, with troops ascending ladders and ropes amidst cannon fire and burning buildings, conveying the turmoil and fear of war through meticulously detailed, miniature figures.

Technique & Style

Callot employed etching techniques, carving minute figures into metal plates before printing. The small scale of the figures (each less than fingernail size) contrasts with the vivid expression of emotion, particularly fear, on the soldiers' faces.

History & Provenance

Created in 1629, the etching is based on the real Siege of La Rochelle (1627-1628). The work is now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Context

The Siege of La Rochelle: Plate 1 reflects Callot's practice of documenting historical conflicts through his art. This piece is part of a broader body of battle prints by the artist.