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Fireworks on the Arno, Florence

Jacques Callot

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a bird's eye view of a public square with various activities happening. The horizon is high in the composition, displaying a wide landscape with an urban setting in the distance. The horizon line showcases structures like domes and city buildings, suggesting a bustling city life. The scene is depicted in a linear style with fine line work typical of etching, detailing figures and architectural elements. The color palette is monochromatic, emphasizing brown and sepia tones for an aged effect. People are engaging in activities near the bottom, including walking, riding horses, and pulling carts. In the distance, there is a fountain or fireworks display as a focal point, with a cityscape and bridge framing the scene.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1622
Medium
etching on laid paper
Dimensions
3511 × 2377 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original