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The Hospital

Jacques Callot

1633

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque

Dominant colour

The Hospital is a 1633 ink by Jacques Callot, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Jacques Callot
When & what style?: 1633 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This etching depicts a bustling street scene in front of a hospital. The hospital's imposing structure features a large dome and a prominent cross, while the surrounding buildings appear worn and weathered. In the foreground, a diverse group of people are engaged in various activities, including some who seem to be in distress. The scene is rendered in a range of tones, from deep shadows to bright highlights, which adds depth and texture to the image. The etching technique allows for intricate details, such as the folds in the clothing and the textures of the buildings. The artist's use of light and shadow creates a sense of drama and tension, drawing the viewer's eye to the central figure of a man being carried away. For more on this technique, look up etching.