Artwork

Mary, Queen of Scots

Mary, Queen of Scots, by Frans Huys, ink, 1558
Mary, Queen of Scots, by Frans Huys, ink, 1558

Mary, Queen of Scots is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Frans Huys. It dates from 1558 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Mary, Queen of Scots is a print engraved by Frans Huys in 1558. It is a black-and-white portrait of a woman in ornate attire.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is depicted wearing a long dress with intricate patterns, a necklace, and a crown symbol in the top corner, signifying her royal status.

Technique & Style

The engraving employs cross-hatching to achieve shading and depth, a common technique in engravings where layered lines create varying tones.

Context

The use of cross-hatching and attention to detail, such as fabric folds and jewelry texture, reflect the technical capabilities and artistic choices available to engravers during this period.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Frans Huys

Artist

Frans Huys

Frans Huys (1522–1562) was an artist, born in Antwerp.

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