Smaralo Cornuto and Ratsa di Boio

c. 1622

Jacques Callot

Associated Names
Jacques Callot

Artist, French, 1592 - 1635

This is a drawing featuring stylized, anthropomorphic figures in a surreal scene. The foreground shows two large, fantastical characters: one with a long beak-like nose, a pointed hat or horn, and a dark cloak; the other with exaggerated muscular features, a billowing scarf, and a masked face with long feathers. They are depicted in motion, interacting with each other. In the midground, several smaller figures are engaged in various activities, some holding sticks or props. The background shows simple structures hinting at a village setting. The overall composition, with mysterious, masked characters, suggests a sense of carnival or theatrical performance. The lines are clear and lively, giving a dynamic feel to the scene.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    R.L. Baumfeld Collection

  • Dimensions

    plate: 7 × 9.1 cm (2 3/4 × 3 9/16 in.)
    sheet: 9.4 × 12.1 cm (3 11/16 × 4 3/4 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1969.15.66

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Lieure, no. 382, State i/ii


Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1975

  • Jacques Callot: Prints and Related Drawings, National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC, 1975, no. 97, repro.

Bibliography

1924

  • Lieure, J. Jacques Callot. 5 vols. Paris: Editions de la Gazette des Beaux Arts, 1924-1927. Reprint. 8 vols. New York: Collectors' Editions, 1969.

Wikidata ID

Q65509063

You may be interested in

Loading Results