The Death of Hector on the Ramparts of Troy (recto) / Tancred and Erminia (verso)

The Death of Hector on the Ramparts of Troy (recto) / Tancred and Erminia (verso)

Pierre Lelu

1776

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This print shows a chaotic scene of people struggling in an outdoor setting. A man lies on the ground, half-naked, while others crowd around him—some touching him, others holding weapons or looking worried. In the background, a crumbling wall and trees add to the sense of urgency. The mix of rough lines and shading suggests the artist used a printmaking method to create texture and depth. The gray-brown tones give it an aged, dramatic look. Next, look up etching to see how artists like Lelu made detailed prints.

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