Artwork
Veüe du Campo Vacine
Veüe du Campo Vacine is an ink print by the Baroque artist Israël Silvestre. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1650, *Veüe du Campo Vacine* is an etching on laid paper by the French draftsman Israel Silvestre. The print presents a linear, monochrome view of a spacious urban landscape populated by a series of monumental buildings with columns and domes, set against a sparsely detailed sky and a flat, arid ground.
Subject & Meaning
The composition depicts a broad plaza flanked by grand architectural structures, suggesting a public gathering space. Small groups of figures traverse the open area, while a few trees break the horizon, hinting at a blend of civic and natural elements. The title, referencing “Campo Vacine,” points to a specific locale, possibly a historic square or field.
Technique & Style
Silvestre employed fine, controlled lines characteristic of 17th‑century etching, rendering architectural details such as steps, arches, and column capitals with precision. The use of laid paper adds a subtle texture to the surface, while the restrained tonal range emphasizes the structural geometry over atmospheric effects, aligning with his reputation for meticulous topographical renderings.
History & Provenance
After extensive travels through France, Spain, and Italy, he produced prints directly from his sketches, often issuing them singly or as part of series.
Orphaned early, Silvestre was raised in Paris by his uncle, an established etcher linked to Jacques Callot. After extensive travels through France, Spain, and Italy, he produced prints directly from his sketches, often issuing them singly or as part of series. *Veüe du Campo Vacine* reflects this itinerant practice, documenting architectural and landscape subjects for a market of collectors interested in accurate visual records.
Artist & collection
Artist
Israel Silvestre (13 August 1621 in Nancy – 11 October 1691 in Paris), called the Younger to distinguish him from his father, was a prolific French draftsman, etcher and print dealer who specialized in topographical views and perspectives…
Castle under Siege
Vuë de l'Eglise sainct Pierre, et du Chasteau Sainct Ange
Palais de la Reyne Catherine de Medicis
Veue de Berny a deux lieues de Paris sur le chemin d'Orléans
L'Eglise Saincte Sophie de Constantinople, bastie par Constantin le Grand; a present Mosquée du Grand seigneur
Campo Vacina
Veuë d'une partie de la place Navonne a Rome
Veue de l'Eglise nostre Dame de Rouen
