The Discovery of the Tomb of Punchinello

The Discovery of the Tomb of Punchinello by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo is a compelling example of 18th-century Italian graphic art, produced during the artist’s prolific late period between 1750 and 1754. Classed as a print, the work was realized through the meticulous technique of etching on laid paper. This technical base is then dramatically enhanced by the application of yellow-green watercolor, a unique element that provides a delicate, atmospheric tint to the entire composition and adds depth to the shadows and light.

Tiepolo, recognized as one of the great Venetian masters of the Rococo, was celebrated primarily for his monumental frescoes, yet he maintained a keen interest in the more intimate world of printmaking. Chronologically spanning the influential period of 1726 to 1750, this print explores the figure of Punchinello (Pulcinella), the iconic, often satirical figure from the Commedia dell’arte. The subject matter moves beyond simple theatrical representation, depicting the figure’s burial or monument. This focus on mortality and the theatrical persona suggests a deeper commentary on human existence or the melancholy fate of the comedian, a theme Tiepolo explored extensively in his drawings and smaller-scale graphic pieces.

The skillful rendering of the figures and the dramatic use of line work confirm Tiepolo’s mastery even within the constraints of the etching medium. The piece holds significant value for understanding the artist’s varied interests outside of traditional religious or mythological commissions. This essential work of Italian culture is housed in the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art, serving as a vital reference point for the study of European prints and Tiepolo’s extensive graphic output.