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National Gallery of Art

  • Visit

    • Plan Your Visit
    • Accessibility
    • Visiting with Kids
    • Food and Drink
    • Tours and Guides
    • Explore the Campus

    Admission is always free

    6th and Constitution Ave NW 
    Washington, DC 20565

    East building

    Must-Sees at the National Gallery

    Make the most of your visit

    Learn more

  • Exhibitions & Events

    • Exhibitions
    • Calendar
    • Kid-Friendly Events

    America’s 250th

    Celebrating American art and artists

  • Art & Artists

    • Artworks
    • Artists
    • Stories
    • Fun and Games
    • Educational Resources
    • Research

    Open Call

    Artists Reimagining the Collection

    Meet the 50 makers selected from more than 1,600 submissions

Utility

  • Support
  • Shop
  • Become a Member

  • Visit

    • Plan Your Visit
    • Accessibility
    • Visiting with Kids
    • Food and Drink
    • Tours and Guides
    • Explore the Campus

    Admission is always free

    6th and Constitution Ave NW 
    Washington, DC 20565

    East building

    Must-Sees at the National Gallery

    Make the most of your visit

    Learn more

  • Exhibitions & Events

    • Exhibitions
    • Calendar
    • Kid-Friendly Events

    America’s 250th

    Celebrating American art and artists

  • Art & Artists

    • Artworks
    • Artists
    • Stories
    • Fun and Games
    • Educational Resources
    • Research

    Open Call

    Artists Reimagining the Collection

    Meet the 50 makers selected from more than 1,600 submissions

Utility

  • Support
  • Shop
  • Become a Member

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    3. Egbert van Heemskerck

    Egbert van Heemskerck

    Dutch, 1634/35 - 1704

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    Artwork

    This is a drawing of anthropomorphic animals in a dimly lit room centered around a table with a candle. The scene depicts a gathering in a dark interior where animals with human-like bodies and facial features are engaging in various activities. The central figure, adorned with an elaborate hat and sitting at the table, appears to be in a position of authority, while others around the table are either watching or involved in conversation. The room is lit by a candle placed on the table, creating a focal point of light and casting shadows around the characters. Each animal character is dressed in period attire. The environment includes details like a jug and an open book.
    William Dickinson, The Constable of the Night, 1783, mezzotint on laid paper, Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund, 2002.8.1

    The Constable of the Night

    The Constable of the Night

    William Dickinson · 1783 · mezzotint on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2002.8.1

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