Le Catafalque de François de Médici [The Bier of Francesco de Medici], after Giulio Parigi, from Estampes Gravées a L’Occasion des Obsèques de François de Médicis [Prints Engraved on the Occasion of the Funeral of Francesco de Medici]

Callot began his long service to the Medici with etchings of inventions by Giulio Parigi, the court festival designer. This print belongs to a very rare series that records the decorations for the funeral of Francesco de Medici. It is developed in Callot’s earliest manner of a regular line, single bite, and minimal tone. At the same time, it already demonstrates an aptitude for contemporary events, an inclination toward theatrical staging, and a sensitivity of hand. Later he would employ a hard ground and special needles to endow his plates with the noble appearance of engraving, whether they were elevated to commemorate or popular to entertain.