Recruitment of Troops

Jacques Callot

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a military procession and camp. The scene depicts a group of soldiers marching in formation, with pikes and flags held high, crossing a large dirt area. To the left, the backdrop includes a large stone fortress with battlements and towers extending into the far distance. In the foreground, under the shade of a large tree, a group is gathered around a table with tents visible behind them. The drawing includes fine lines and detailed engravings, characteristic of etching techniques of classic military scenes, with an emphasis on the disciplined arrangement of figures and equipment.