The Stake

Gerrit van Schagen after Jacques Callot

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a military camp scene. The drawing features soldiers in a highly detailed and organized composition. There are soldiers in formation, carrying various weapons, occupying much of the horizontal span of the drawing. A line of soldiers extends across the center and back of the image. Above the soldiers, there are wavy lines representing clouds or smoke, while in the backdrop, buildings, including a church with a cross, appear to be on fire. Details in the foreground include figures engaged in physical activities. The drawing conveys a sense of historical or narrative depth, capturing a moment of tension and activity.