The image depicts a naval battle with several ships positioned across the sea. The viewpoint is elevated, showing the ships and the vast expanse of the sea. The horizon is high in the composition, with ships in varying distances. Ships in the distance are smaller, creating depth perception. Closer ships, including one in combat with firing cannons, are larger and more detailed. The etching technique shows fine lines and textures, depicting movement in the sea and sails. The color scheme is monochromatic, with shades of grey and black, giving a classic and historical ambiance. The sails and hulls of the ships have detailed linework, adding to the sense of action and drama on the water's surface.
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The image depicts a naval battle with several ships positioned across the sea. The viewpoint is elevated, showing the ships and the vast expanse of the sea. The horizon is high in the composition, with ships in varying distances. Ships in the distance are smaller, creating depth perception. Closer ships, including one in combat with firing cannons, are larger and more detailed. The etching technique shows fine lines and textures, depicting movement in the sea and sails. The color scheme is monochromatic, with shades of grey and black, giving a classic and historical ambiance. The sails and hulls of the ships have detailed linework, adding to the sense of action and drama on the water's surface.

National Gallery of Art · Print

Boarding of the Petaccio

Jacques Callot

Date
1617
Medium
etching on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 14.4 × 19.9 cm (5 11/16 × 7 13/16 in.) sheet: 16.4 × 21.9 cm (6 7/16 × 8 5/8 in.)
Classification
Print
Accession number
1969.15.361
Credit line
R.L. Baumfeld Collection
Time span
1601 to 1650
Department
CG-E

Portfolio and series

Series
The Combat of Four Galleys [Lieure 194-197]

Subjects and terms

  • French
  • etching
  • Ship
  • Boat
  • Ocean
  • Writing

NGA object ID 51514. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.