Artwork
Harvard College Bookplate with the Christo et Ecclesiæ Seal
Harvard College Bookplate with the Christo et Ecclesiæ Seal is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Nathaniel Hurd. It dates from 1765 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
The shield has a pyramid shape with a cross on top, and the words around it say things like *"Harvard College"* and *"1630.
This print shows a fancy coat of arms with a shield, books, and a sun on top. Swirly lines frame the whole thing like a crown. Below the shield, words wrap around in a banner. At the bottom, a name—*Thorndike*—and the year *1818* are written in cursive. Two globes sit on either side, and a face peeks out from the bottom corners.
The shield has a pyramid shape with a cross on top, and the words around it say things like *"Harvard College"* and *"1630."* This was likely made for a book owned by Harvard.
Look up engraving to see how artists like this made detailed prints with just metal and ink.
Overview
The Harvard College Bookplate with the Christo et Ecclesiæ Seal is an engraved print created by Nathaniel Hurd in 1765, featuring a complex coat of arms design.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a shield with a chevron and three books, surmounted by a radiant sun and framed by ornate scrollwork. The shield bears the motto 'Christo et Ecclesiæ,' while the surrounding text references Harvard College and its founding year, 1630.
Technique & Style
Executed in engraving, a technique involving the incision of designs onto metal plates, the print showcases Hurd's skill in creating detailed, intricate compositions using line work and texture.
History & Provenance
The bookplate was likely designed for use in books owned by Harvard College. A specific example bears the name 'Thorndike' and the date '1818,' indicating its use in a particular volume.
Artist & collection
Harvard College Bookplate with the Christo et Ecclesiæ Seal
Bookplate: Seal of Harvard College
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