Seated magician, boy and four figures from the Scherzi di Fantasia

Seated magician, boy and four figures from the Scherzi di Fantasia is an intricate etching created by the renowned Venetian master Giovanni Battista Tiepolo between 1738 and 1755. This sophisticated print belongs to Tiepolo’s highly influential graphic series, the Scherzi di Fantasia (Fantasies or Jokes), a collection of 23 plates showcasing the artist’s dramatic flair for the bizarre and esoteric. As an etching, the work relies on the delicate interplay of incised lines and tonal variations achieved through the interaction of acid and copper plate, demonstrating Tiepolo’s significant technical skill outside the realm of large-scale fresco painting. The specific impression held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art is notable as the first state of two, reflecting the initial clarity and detail of the plate before any subsequent alterations.

The composition centers on a figure identified as a magician or soothsayer, who is seated and surrounded by various arcane props and four ancillary figures. Consistent with the Scherzi's characteristic blend of classical, pastoral, and occult motifs, the scene evokes a sense of theatrical mystery. A young boy stands nearby, perhaps an apprentice or assistant to the primary figure, observing the proceedings. Tiepolo incorporates animals into the composition, further enhancing the dramatic and surreal atmosphere typical of these fantasy prints. The etching is marked by a deep chiaroscuro, utilizing sharp, varied cross-hatching to create dramatic shadows that emphasize the figures and mystical setting.

The Scherzi di Fantasia represents a pivotal moment in Tiepolo’s graphic arts career, showing a shift from grand public commissions to more intimate, imaginative narratives. These works circulated widely in the 18th century, solidifying Tiepolo’s reputation as a master of printmaking. Today, high-resolution prints of the master’s work are often available through public domain initiatives, allowing broader access to his innovative graphic output. This significant example of Tiepolo’s experimentation with etching techniques is housed within the extensive prints and drawings collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.