Who painted Edmund Grindal, Archbishop of Canterbury?

Edmund Grindal, Archbishop of Canterbury was painted by Michiel van der Gucht in 1710.

Where can I see Edmund Grindal, Archbishop of Canterbury?

Edmund Grindal, Archbishop of Canterbury is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Edmund Grindal, Archbishop of Canterbury?

Edmund Grindal, Archbishop of Canterbury is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Edmund Grindal, Archbishop of Canterbury

Michiel van der Gucht , 1710

Edmund Grindal, Archbishop of Canterbury is an ink print by the Baroque artist Michiel van der Gucht. It dates from 1710 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1710 engraving by Michiel van der Gucht depicts Edmund Grindal, who served as Archbishop of Canterbury. Executed in the early eighteenth‑century print tradition, the image presents the cleric in formal ecclesiastical dress, holding an open book, against a uniform background that draws the viewer’s focus to his dignified presence.

Subject & Meaning

Grindal is shown wearing a dark robe with a high collar and a matching hat, his long white beard falling to his chest. The open book he holds alludes to his scholarly and theological role, while his serious, slightly furrowed expression conveys the gravitas associated with his office as a leading figure of the Church of England.

Technique & Style

Van der Gucht employs fine cross‑hatching to render the textures of fabric, hair, and facial features, creating subtle tonal variations that give the portrait depth. The solid, unadorned background eliminates distraction, emphasizing the meticulous line work and the controlled chiaroscuro typical of early eighteenth‑century engraving.

History & Provenance

Created in 1710, the print reflects the period’s interest in commemorating prominent religious leaders through reproducible media. While specific ownership records are limited, the work is attributed to van der Gucht, a noted Dutch‑English engraver whose prints were widely circulated among collectors and institutions in Britain and the Netherlands.