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Nine Figures around a Herm of Pan

Francesco Fontebasso

1744

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque 18th Century Allegory

Dominant colour

Nine Figures around a Herm of Pan is a 1744 ink by Francesco Fontebasso, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Francesco Fontebasso
When & what style?: 1744 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This etching shows nine figures in a wooded scene. On the left, two people play music—one with a violin, the other with a flute. Nearby, three children sit or lie on the ground, looking relaxed. To the right, three standing figures hold objects: a cup, a pitcher, and a basket. A large goat or ram lies on the grass, with two more kids playing beside it. Trees and bushes fill the background, framing the group. Notice the goat’s horns and the way the figures mix play and stillness. The artist used fine lines to create depth, making the scene feel lively despite being black and white. Want to see more? Check out etching to learn how artists like this made detailed prints.