Artwork

Three Crowns Supported by Two Sceptres [right half]

Three Crowns Supported by Two Sceptres [right half], by Dutch 17th Century, ink, 1650
Three Crowns Supported by Two Sceptres [right half], by Dutch 17th Century, ink, 1650

Three Crowns Supported by Two Sceptres [right half] is an ink print by the Baroque artist Dutch 17th Century. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. The work is a small, circular engraving executed on a silver medal.

About this work

Overview

The work is a small, circular engraving executed on a silver medal. At its core three crowns rest upon two elongated sceptres, surrounded by a dense arrangement of geometric motifs such as triangles, circles and star‑like forms. The rim of the disc is further embellished with a crescent, a sun and a stylised bird‑like figure.

Subject & Meaning

The central crowns and sceptres likely symbolize authority and sovereignty, while the surrounding celestial symbols—sun, moon, and winged creature—suggest a connection between earthly power and the divine or cosmic order. The compact composition reflects a heraldic tradition of encoding status through emblematic imagery.

Technique & Style

The image is rendered through cross‑hatching, a method that builds tonal depth by layering fine, parallel lines. This approach creates subtle shadows and a sense of three‑dimensionality within the limited surface of the medal, characteristic of the meticulous engraving practices of the Baroque period.

History & Provenance

Produced as a pulled engraving from a silver medal, the piece belongs to a tradition of metal‑based printmaking where the original metal work serves as a matrix for multiple impressions. Such medals were often commissioned for ceremonial or commemorative purposes, though specific patronage for this item is not recorded.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Dutch 17th Century

Artist

Dutch 17th Century

This Dutch artist made small, sharp engravings and etchings—mostly portraits and sea battles—printed from metal plates.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.