Four Bacchic Children c. 1620s

Laurent de La Hyre's etching "Four Bacchic Children" (c. 1620s) captures the lively spirit of Bacchic revelry. The print depicts four youthful figures amidst a wooded landscape, engaged in playful interactions. One reclines on the ground while another leans over, possibly offering a drink from a barrel, suggesting the revelry and debauchery associated with the god Bacchus. The detailed cross-hatching and fine lines in this small etching create a sense of immediacy and dynamism, characteristic of La Hyre's style. This intimate depiction of the Bacchic theme likely appealed to collectors seeking a glimpse into the world of Classical mythology.