Artwork
Sir Bevil Grenville
Sir Bevil Grenville is an ink print by the Baroque artist William Faithorne. It dates from 1684 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
The background is filled with swirling leaves and a wreath-like frame, giving it a decorative, almost formal look.
This is a black-and-white portrait of a man with curly hair and a mustache. He’s dressed in a fancy, buttoned-up coat, holding a folded piece of paper or cloth in one hand. The background is filled with swirling leaves and a wreath-like frame, giving it a decorative, almost formal look.
The text at the bottom names him "Anglorum Magnanimus Bevil Grenville," which sounds like a title or honor. The numbers "Etat. 39" and "1640" might mean he was 39 years old in that year.
If you like this style, look up engraving to see how artists create detailed prints like this.
Overview
This print is an engraving of Sir Bevil Grenville, created by William Faithorne in 1684. It is a black-and-white portrait.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Grenville, identified by the Latin inscription 'Anglorum Magnanimus Bevil Grenville', at the age of 39 in 1640, as indicated by the notation 'Etat. 39' and the date '1640'. He is shown dressed in formal attire, holding a folded item.
Technique & Style
The engraving features intricate details, with Grenville set against a decorative background of swirling leaves and a wreath-like frame. The use of engraving allowed Faithorne to achieve a high level of detail in the print.
Artist & collection
Artist
William Faithorne (1616–1691) was a British artist, born in Greater London.
