Artwork
Columbus Breaking the Egg
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.
Artist & collection
Artist
William Hogarth (; 10 November 1697 – 26 October 1764) was an English painter, engraver, satirist, cartoonist and writer.
Le glouton
The Prodigal Son Receiving His Patrimony
A Rake's Progress: pl.2
The Card Players![King and Queen in Consultation about the Turks [recto], by Jacques Callot](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/jacques-callot--king-and-queen-in-consultation-about-the-turks-recto--5b03792b86815455-w320.webp)
King and Queen in Consultation about the Turks [recto]
King and Queen in Consultation about the Turks
The Laughing Audience
The Prodigal Son's Father Orders the Best Robe and the Slaughter of the Fatted Calf
The Laughing Audience
The Card Players
A Rake's Progress: pl.7
Columbus Breaking the Egg