The Float of Thetis
1616
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
About the artist
Artist
Jacques Callot
Jacques Callot was a baroque printmaker and draftsman from the Duchy of Lorraine.
See the richer artist page1616
ink
paper
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Float of Thetis is a 1616 ink by Jacques Callot, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This etching shows a wild, crowded scene on a float shaped like a ship. At the center, a towering figure stands on a pedestal, surrounded by swirling sea creatures—mermaids, tritons, and giant fish. Below, eight towering figures pull the float, each holding a trident or spear, while smaller figures scramble around them. The background is packed with tangled vines and strange, half-human shapes. The text at the top explains this was part of a parade in Florence for a visiting prince. The mix of mythical sea gods and chaotic energy suggests it’s celebrating a story from ancient Greek myths. If this style of dramatic, busy scenes interests you, look into Baroque.
Jacques Callot was a baroque printmaker and draftsman from the Duchy of Lorraine.
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