Plate 30 from "Course des Tetes et Bagues" 1657 - 1667

"Plate 30 from 'Course des Tetes et Bagues'" is an etching by François Chauveau, a prominent French artist of the 17th century. This plate, part of a larger series, depicts two riders, one playing a trumpet and the other striking a drum, both adorned in elaborate costumes and mounted on richly decorated steeds. This dynamic scene, captured in exquisite detail, showcases Chauveau's mastery of the etching technique and his keen eye for capturing the intricacies of 17th-century equestrian culture. The presence of a blank banner at the top suggests that this image was intended for use as a title page or frontispiece for a larger publication, perhaps a collection of equestrian scenes or a treatise on horse riding. The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this fascinating work, offering viewers a glimpse into the artistry and cultural practices of France during the 17th century.