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Harlequin Unmasked, by Francesco Bartolozzi, ink, 1760

Dominant colour

Overview

Harlequin Unmasked is a 1760 ink by Francesco Bartolozzi, a Romanticism work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Francesco Bartolozzi
When & what style?
1760 · Romanticism
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white print shows two figures in a dramatic pose. One person, dressed in loose, flowing clothes and a wide-brimmed hat, is holding up a mask. The other, a smaller figure in simpler clothes, is reaching out toward the mask with one hand while the other arm is raised. Their faces are expressive, with the taller figure looking intense. The text below the image is in Italian, hinting at a story about deception or disguise. The lines and shading in the print create a sense of movement and emotion, typical of this style. Next, check out etching to see how artists like this one made detailed prints.

About the artist

Portrait of Francesco Bartolozzi
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.

See the richer artist page

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