Artwork
Henry VIII

Henry VIII is an ink print by the Baroque artist Peter Isselburg. It dates from 1616 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This engraving, dated circa 1616, portrays a bearded man with a solemn expression, identified as Henry VIII. The composition includes a leafy wreath framing his head, Latin inscriptions around the edges, and a coat of arms at the top left.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is Henry VIII, depicted in a contemplative pose with hands resting in his lap. The inclusion of a coat of arms and Latin text suggests an emphasis on the subject's nobility and possibly his intellectual or religious aspects.
Technique & Style
The engraving showcases meticulous line work to achieve shading and texture. Notable attention is given to the rendering of facial features and the intricate folds of the subject's attire, characteristic of the precise control possible in engraving.
History & Provenance
Created by Peter Isselburg around 1616, specific details about the engraving's original commission, ownership history, or exhibition record are not provided in the available information.
Context
As an engraving, this work reflects the medium's capability for detailed, reproducible images. The style and subject matter place it within the broader tradition of European portrait engraving during the early 17th century.











