Artwork

Robert Carr, Earl of Somerset and His Countess

Robert Carr, Earl of Somerset and His Countess, by Renold Elstrack, ink
Robert Carr, Earl of Somerset and His Countess, by Renold Elstrack, ink

Robert Carr, Earl of Somerset and His Countess is an ink print by the Baroque artist Renold Elstrack. It is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Robert Carr, Earl of Somerset and His Countess is an engraving created by Renold Elstrack in 1651. The print depicts a man and woman standing together, dressed in elaborate attire.

Subject & Meaning

The subjects are Robert Carr, Earl of Somerset, and his countess. They are shown wearing ornate clothing and jewelry, with the woman holding a fan. Their formal attire and accessories suggest a representation of their high social status.

Technique & Style

The engraving employs cross-hatching to create shading, with crisscrossing lines conveying depth and texture on the subjects' clothing. This technique was typical for engravings of the time, allowing artists to achieve nuanced representations using only lines.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Renold Elstrack

Artist

Renold Elstrack

Renold Elstrack (1570–1625) was an artist, born in London.

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