Callot sets a new way of engraving. He uses a hard varnish, which gives him more precision in his work and therefore
a more skilful way of engraving. He can be regarded as the founding father of modern print. Rembrandt was a great
collector of prints of the master from Lorraine.
In his lifetime –that is 43 years– Jacques Callot succeeded in influencing the whole story of print to a
significant extent. He was one of the most accomplished engraver of his time in the Occidental tradition, and one of
the most famous 17th century mannerists. He got famous while he was alive. His entire works is made of no less
than 1400 engravings.
The works of Callot is divided in several parts: the religious topics, war, and everyday life.
Engraver, painter and drawer, Jacques CALLOT is considered to be one of the greatest masters of engraving
thanks to a substantial production personalized by his technical skills. His verve ant the choice of his popular themes
makes him a very special artist of the “classical” 17th century.
The works of Callot is a turning point in the story of engraving, which he raised to the level of painting and
sculpture by using it, before Rembrandt, as a direct means of expression, whereas its traditional function had been
limited to mere reproduction.
Today, it is recognized all over the world that Callot is among the greatest artists: Dürer, Rembrandt, Goya.
Works of reference used to realize the part on Jacques Callot :
- Lieure, Jules : Catalogue raisonné de l'oeuvre gravée de Jacques Callot. 1924-1929
- Jacques Callot 1592-1635 Musée historique lorrain. Réunion des Musées nationaux 1992.
- Musée du Louvre : Jacques Callot. Actes du Colloque organisé par le Musée du Louvre. Editions Klincksieck. 1993
- H. Diane RUSSEL : Jacques Callot, prints and drawings.
National Gallery of Art - Washington - 1975
- Gérald KAHAN : Jacques Callot, Artist of the Theatre
The University of Georgia Press - Athens - 1976
|
