Who painted Henricus Percye (Henry Percy, Ninth Earl of Northumberland)?

Henricus Percye (Henry Percy, Ninth Earl of Northumberland) was painted by Francis Delaram in 1608.

Where can I see Henricus Percye (Henry Percy, Ninth Earl of Northumberland)?

Henricus Percye (Henry Percy, Ninth Earl of Northumberland) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Henricus Percye (Henry Percy, Ninth Earl of Northumberland)?

Henricus Percye (Henry Percy, Ninth Earl of Northumberland) is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Henricus Percye (Henry Percy, Ninth Earl of Northumberland)

Francis Delaram , 1608

Henricus Percye (Henry Percy, Ninth Earl of Northumberland) is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Francis Delaram. It dates from 1608 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1608 engraving by Francis Delaram portrays Henry Percy, the ninth Earl of Northumberland, in a traditional portrait format. The work showcases Delaram's skill in capturing detailed likenesses, characteristic of his output as an English engraver of Flemish origin, active primarily in the early 17th century.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts Henry Percy with a long white beard and mustache, adorned in a hat, dark vest, lighter shirt, and ruff. He holds an unidentified object in his right hand. Surrounding text identifies him as 'Henricus Percye, Ninth Earl of Northumberland,' alongside Latin phrases, emphasizing his noble status.

Technique & Style

Delaram's Flemish heritage is evident in the decorative elements, such as the cherubs framing the Earl. The engraving features detailed realism, with pronounced texture and shading, typical of Renaissance portraiture. Notably, the background, enclosed within a dark oval with a lighter border, is marked by less refined execution.

History & Provenance

Created in 1608, this engraving is part of Delaram's broader oeuvre, which included illustrations for William Camden’s Historie. Active between 1615 and either 1624 or 1627, Delaram's work during this period reflects the transitional stylistic influences of the time.

Context

This piece is emblematic of Renaissance art's emphasis on realism and detail. The combination of a realistically rendered subject with symbolic, decorative elements (like cherubs) highlights the period's aesthetic balance between realism and ornamentation.

Legacy

While specific lasting impacts of this engraving are not broadly documented, it contributes to the historical record of Henry Percy's representation in art and showcases Delaram's contribution to the English engraving tradition of the early 17th century.

Artist & collection

Artist

Francis Delaram

Francis Delaram (born around 1590, fl. 1615–1624 or 1627), was an English engraver. Delaram left a substantial collection of engraved portraits, landscapes and book illustrations (specifically, William Camden's…