Artwork
Sir Walter Raleigh
Sir Walter Raleigh 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
Overview
This 1663 engraving, attributed to Frederik Hendrik van den Hove, depicts Sir Walter Raleigh in a formal, solemn portrait.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving shows Raleigh with a thick beard and ruffled collar, conveying a sense of gravity. A smaller, crowned figure appears behind him, possibly symbolizing Raleigh's association with royalty or his own aspirations. A shield with lions and a crest featuring a lightning bolt to the right may allude to Raleigh's military or exploratory endeavors.
Technique & Style
The work showcases intricate details achieved through engraving, a technique involving carving designs into a material (often metal) for printing. The level of intricacy suggests the artist's skill in this medium.
History & Provenance
Created in 1663 by Frederik Hendrik van den Hove, the engraving's provenance is not detailed here, though the artist's name (partially obscured) and the subject's identification as 'the true effigies of Sir Walter Rawleigh Knight' are inscribed at the bottom.
Context
Engravings like this were common for disseminating portraits of notable figures during the 17th century, making Raleigh's image more accessible to a broader audience.
Artist & collection
