Snake and Its Skin c. 17th century

Editor: This is "Snake and Its Skin" by Jacques Callot. The stark contrast between the rocks and the snake really grabs my attention. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Note how Callot uses line to create texture and volume. The striated marks on the rocks give them a tangible form, while the snake is defined by delicate, almost ornamental, contours. Editor: It's interesting how the snake, despite being the subject, seems almost secondary to the landscape in its level of detail. Curator: Precisely. The composition directs our eye to appreciate the formal relationships between the natural elements before considering the narrative. It is a study of form, line, and light. Editor: I never would have noticed that on my own! Curator: Observation is key.