Artwork

Sir Philip Sidney

Sir Philip Sidney, by Frederik Hendrik van den Hove, ink, 1663
Sir Philip Sidney, by Frederik Hendrik van den Hove, ink, 1663

Sir Philip Sidney is an ink print by the Baroque artist Frederik Hendrik van den Hove. It dates from 1663 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Next, check out engraving to see how artists like this made detailed prints with just ink and lines.

This is a black-and-white portrait of a man with curly hair and a stiff white collar. He’s wearing a dark, patterned jacket with lace cuffs and a chain hanging from his neck. The background is plain, and the whole image is framed in a thick, oval border.

The text below says “PHILIPPVS SIDNEIVS” and notes he died in 1586. The artist’s name, “F.H. van Hove sculp,” is also carved into the print.

Next, check out engraving to see how artists like this made detailed prints with just ink and lines.

Overview

This engraving is a portrait of Sir Philip Sidney, created by Frederik Hendrik van den Hove in 1663. It is a black-and-white print featuring the subject within an oval border.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Sidney, an English figure, wearing formal attire with a patterned jacket and lace cuffs. The inscription 'PHILIPPVS SIDNEIVS' and the year of his death, 1586, are included, indicating the subject's identity and mortality.

Technique & Style

The engraving is characterized by detailed work using ink and lines, showcasing the artist's skill in creating nuanced representations through this medium. The plain background and oval border frame the subject, emphasizing his likeness.

History & Provenance

The print was created nearly 80 years after Sidney's death, suggesting it is a posthumous portrait based on an earlier image or description. The artist, Frederik Hendrik van den Hove, signed the work 'F.H. van Hove sculp,' indicating his role as the engraver.

Artist & collection

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