The image shows a collection of sweeping, curving lines and irregular shapes forming an abstract composition. The lines intersect and flow across the canvas. Some shapes loosely resemble distorted human faces and figures, possibly wearing hats, with hints of figures in motion or masks with exaggerated expressions. The overall effect is a dynamic scattering of forms that encourages viewers to find familiar shapes within the chaos.
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Gobbi and Other Bizarre Figures

Jacques Callot (French, 1592 - 1635)

1616 /1617

Medium
pen and iron gall ink with a partial sketch in graphite at upper left on laid paper
Classification
Drawing
Dimensions
overall: 12 x 14.1 cm (4 3/4 x 5 9/16 in.)
Culture
French
Museum
National Gallery of Art, CG-E
Credit line
Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund
Rights
Public domain (NGA Open Access, CC0), as the museum states it.
Who can see it
Tweens profiles and older: its subjects are known and suit older children. How works are placed

View at the National Gallery of Art