Artwork

Title Page to History of the Defenders of theCatholic Faith, by Christopher Lever

Title Page to History of the Defenders of theCatholic Faith, by Christopher Lever is an ink print by the Baroque artist Frederik van Hulsen. It dates from 1627 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Frederik van Hulsen's 1627 engraving, Title Page to History of the Defenders of the Catholic Faith, serves as the title page for Christopher Lever's historical work. This intricately detailed print showcases multiple scenes and symbols within a single composition.

Subject & Meaning

At its core, the engraving promotes *The History of the Defenders of the Catholic Faith*. Surrounding the central title, six panels illustrate key themes: monarchs, military conflicts, and religious figures, all portrayed with solemnity, highlighting the faith's protectors across various domains.

Technique & Style

Van Hulsen employed meticulous cross-hatching, a technique involving fine, intersecting lines, to achieve deep shadows and textured effects, lending a near three-dimensional quality to the metal plate engraving. The design is further embellished with miniature motifs of ships, swords, and crowns in the corners.

History & Provenance

Created in 1627 for Christopher Lever's historical text, specific details on the engraving's subsequent ownership or exhibition history are not provided in the available information.

Context

This work reflects the early 17th-century European context where religious themes and historical documentation were prominent in artistic commissions. The use of engraving facilitated widespread dissemination of such works.

Legacy

While specific lasting impacts or influences of this title page are not detailed, it contributes to the broader legacy of 17th-century engraving techniques and religious-art historical illustrations.