Who painted Columbus Breaking the Egg?

Columbus Breaking the Egg was painted by William Hogarth in 1752.

Where can I see Columbus Breaking the Egg?

Columbus Breaking the Egg is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Columbus Breaking the Egg?

Columbus Breaking the Egg is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Columbus Breaking the Egg?

Museum-quality prints of Columbus Breaking the Egg are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Columbus Breaking the Egg

William Hogarth , 1752

Columbus Breaking the Egg is an ink print by the Romanticist artist William Hogarth. It dates from 1752 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Columbus Breaking the Egg is an etching created by William Hogarth in 1752. The print depicts a satirical scene featuring Christopher Columbus and a group of onlookers.

Subject & Meaning

The scene shows Columbus struggling to balance an egg, a visual metaphor for making the impossible seem simple. The image is a commentary on human folly and pretension, characteristic of Hogarth's satirical style.

Technique & Style

The etching employs chiaroscuro to create a sense of drama and tension, drawing attention to the central figure. The use of light and shadow adds depth to the scene, while the varied facial expressions of the onlookers convey anticipation and curiosity.

Context

The work is part of Hogarth's broader engagement with social and political commentary through printmaking, reflecting his characteristic blend of humor and critique.