Artwork
H Beard Print Collection

H Beard Print Collection is a print by the Baroque artist Jacques de Gheyn. It dates from 1600 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
This engraving by Jacques de Gheyn II shows an allegory about masks and death.
This engraving by Jacques de Gheyn II shows an allegory about masks and death. It’s part of a set called *The Masks*, made after 1600. The print mixes text and figures to make a point about hiding and truth.
The skeleton of Death looms over two women, pulling off their masks. A Latin verse in the middle ties the scene to the idea of hidden identities. The whole thing feels heavy with meaning, not just decoration.
Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more from this set.
Overview
This engraving, 'Death Removes Masks From Fair Women', is part of a series titled *The Masks* by Jacques de Gheyn II, created after 1600.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts an allegory about mortality and deception, featuring Death as a skeleton removing masks from two women, one praying and the other with folded arms, symbolizing the revelation of true identities.
Technique & Style
The engraving combines text and imagery, incorporating a Latin verse in italic script within a central tablet, flanked by carved statues and surmounted by a skeleton, showcasing a gothic style with ornate details.
Context
As part of a set of ten engravings known as *The Masks*, this work explores themes of hidden identities and mortality, likely reflecting the cultural and artistic preoccupations of the early 17th century.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jacques de Gheyn made detailed prints in the early 1600s. This bundle includes two of his prints from the H Beard Print Collection: one dated after 1600 and another without a date. His work belongs to the print…











