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The Theatre of Water (Le Théâtre d'Eau), by Jacques Rigaud, ink, 1718

The Theatre of Water (Le Théâtre d'Eau)

Jacques Rigaud

1718

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

The Theatre of Water (Le Théâtre d'Eau) is a 1718 ink by Jacques Rigaud, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Jacques Rigaud
When & what style?
1718 · Baroque
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This picture shows a big, fancy park with lots of people walking around. In the middle, there’s a long row of fountains shooting water high into the air. Trees line the back, and the sky is light and soft. The people wear old-fashioned clothes—men in wigs and coats, women in long dresses. Some are sitting on benches, others are strolling or chatting. The fountains aren’t just straight lines—they curve and twist like a show. The artist made it look like water is dancing. This kind of fancy water display was a big deal back then. If you like this, check out more about engraving.

About the artist

More by Jacques Rigaud

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