Artwork
John Howson, Bishop of Durham
John Howson, Bishop of Durham is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Martin Droeshout. It dates from 1610 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This engraving by Martin Droeshout portrays John Howson, a prominent religious figure. Created in 1610, it is a black-and-white print that captures the subject's likeness in detail.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts an elderly man, identified by inscription as John Howson, Bishop of Durham. He is shown seated, wearing clerical attire, with a long white beard and dark hat, conveying a sense of dignity and authority.
Technique & Style
Droeshout's engraving technique is characterized by the use of fine lines to achieve shading and texture, particularly evident in the rendering of the subject's face and robes. The surrounding text, in an ornate script, provides additional information about Howson's identity and accomplishments.
Context
The inscription below the image praises Howson's contributions to the church, highlighting his significance within the religious community of the time.
Artist & collection
John Aylmer, D.D., Bishop of London, Preceptor to Lady Jane Grey
Hugh Latimer, Bishop of Worcester
Reverendi Doni: Josephi Hall Norwici Nuper Episco. (Joseph Hall, Bishop of Norwich)
Joseph Hall, Bishop of Norwich
Thomas Morton
Hugh Latimer
Tobias Matthew, Archbishop of York
George Carleton, Bishop of Cheschester