377 - Jacques Callot - Zanni or Scapino, from Les Trois Pantalons - 1618

Jacques Callot - Zanni or Scapino, from Les Trois Pantalons - 1618 Description: Jacques Callot (1592–1635) — Zanni or Scapino, from Les Trois Pantalons, also called Les Trois Acteurs, c. 1618–1620. Etching with engraving. One of Callot’s celebrated and much sought-after series of only three large-format prints devoted to the principal characters of the Italian Commedia dell’Arte. These unusually large and imposing figure compositions occupy a distinctive place within Callot’s graphic oeuvre, combining a monumental, brilliantly characterized foreground figure with the artist’s extraordinary virtuosity in the minute and highly animated theatrical scenes in the background. Zanni or Scapino is shown in his extravagant costume and feathered hat, holding an enormous sword and mischievously sticking out his tongue, while in the distance the same character appears performing before a large audience. Lieure 290, only state; Meaume 629. Dimensions: 22,20 x 15,00 cm Condition: A very good and attractive impression on laid paper, the principal figure printing strongly and with excellent definition, while the remarkably delicate background retains its fine detail and atmospheric quality. With small margins beyond the plate mark at the sides and top; the large blank lower margin reduced, without loss to the image. Minor handling traces, otherwise very well preserved and in very good condition. Literature: Lieure 1927 / Jacques Callot (290), only state ----- Meaume 1860 / Recherches sur la vie et les ouvrages de Jacques Callot (629), only state Medium: Etching Date: 1618-1620