Artwork
Sir Thomas More, Lord Chancellor
Sir Thomas More, Lord Chancellor is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Renold Elstrack. It dates from 1598 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Renold Elstrack's 1598 engraving, Sir Thomas More, Lord Chancellor, is a black-and-white print depicting the esteemed historical figure in formal attire, surrounded by an intricately designed border.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving portrays Sir Thomas More, emphasizing his dignity through a fur-lined robe, chain, and hat. He holds an indeterminate small object, possibly symbolizing his intellectual or material stature. The border's Latin inscription, 'Dice Mori Mundo', alludes to the unpredictability of life's outcomes.
Technique & Style
Elstrack employed fine-line engraving to achieve detailed textures, such as the stitching on More's robe, and subtle shading, creating a sense of depth in the image.
History & Provenance
Created in 1598, specific details about the engraving's ownership history and exhibition record are not provided in the available information.
Context
The work reflects the Renaissance tradition of portraying prominent figures with symbols of their status, while the Latin border suggests an appeal to a learned audience familiar with classical references.
Legacy
The enduring presence of Sir Thomas More, Lord Chancellor in historical and artistic records indicates its contribution to the visual legacy of Sir Thomas More, though its broader influence on subsequent art or historical discourse is not specified here.
Artist & collection
