Who painted Harlequin Unmasked?

Harlequin Unmasked was painted by Francesco Bartolozzi in 1760.

Where can I see Harlequin Unmasked?

Harlequin Unmasked is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Harlequin Unmasked?

Harlequin Unmasked is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Harlequin Unmasked?

Museum-quality prints of Harlequin Unmasked are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Harlequin Unmasked

Francesco Bartolozzi , 1760

Harlequin Unmasked is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Francesco Bartolozzi. It dates from 1760 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower left in plate: Gio. Dom.co Ferretti inven.; lower right in plate: F. Bartolozzi Scul. Appo I. Wagner Ven.a C.P.E.S.; lower center in plate: Invano si nasconde un traditore / Sotto il vestito umil di Bacchettone. / A donna amante tutto scopre amore; / E si conosce al viso ogni Buffone.

About this work

Overview

Harlequin Unmasked is a 1760 print by Italian engraver Francesco Bartolozzi, combining etching and engraving techniques. The work is part of the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts two figures in a dramatic scene: a taller, elaborately dressed figure holding a mask, and a smaller, simply dressed figure reaching for it with mixed gestures. Expressive faces and Italian text suggest a narrative of deception or disguise.

Technique & Style

Bartolozzi's distinctive style, developed during his productive years in London, is evident in the expressive lines and shading that convey movement and emotion, characteristic of his approach to engraving.

History & Provenance

Created in 1760, the print is now held in the National Gallery of Art's collection in Washington, D.C.

Context

While in London, Bartolozzi popularized the crayon method of engraving, though this work specifically utilizes etching and engraving, highlighting his versatility.

Legacy

This work exemplifies Bartolozzi's contribution to engraving, with techniques that influenced detailed printmaking, as further explored in the etching process.

Harlequin as Lacemaker, Francesco Bartolozzi

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Artist & collection

Artist

Francesco Bartolozzi

Francesco Bartolozzi (21 September 1727 – 7 March 1815) was an Italian engraver, whose most productive period was spent in London. He is noted for popularizing the "crayon" method of engraving.