Who painted Quirinus Rechlinger?

Quirinus Rechlinger was painted by Lucas Kilian in 1615.

Where can I see Quirinus Rechlinger?

Quirinus Rechlinger is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Quirinus Rechlinger?

Quirinus Rechlinger is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Quirinus Rechlinger

Lucas Kilian , 1615

Quirinus Rechlinger is an ink print by the Baroque artist Lucas Kilian. It dates from 1615 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Lucas Kilian’s 1615 engraving portrays Quirinus Rechlinger, an elderly gentleman distinguished by a white beard, a dark robe, and a gold chain. The image is rendered in black‑and‑white, framed by ornamental scrollwork and a heraldic device at the lower edge. The inscription around the head identifies the sitter and includes a series of Latin titles, underscoring his status.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter’s attire and chain suggest a position of authority, likely a civic or court official, while the solemn expression conveys dignity and gravitas. The surrounding decorative elements, including the coat of arms, reinforce his social rank and the formal nature of the portrait, typical of early‑modern German commemorative prints.

Technique & Style

Executed by engraving, Kilian incised fine lines into a copper plate, allowing for precise modeling of facial features and textile textures. The stark monochrome palette emphasizes contrast and detail, while the elaborate border demonstrates the period’s taste for ornamental framing, integrating text and heraldry within the composition.

History & Provenance

Created while Kilian worked in Augsburg’s Custos workshop—founded by his stepfather—the print reflects his involvement in the city’s thriving print‑making network. The work circulated among patrons interested in portraiture, alongside Kilian’s mythological and anatomical series, illustrating the breadth of his output during the early 17th century.

Context

Augsburg in the early 1600s was a major hub for metal‑based print production, offering skilled artisans access to shared tools and collaborative workshops. Kilian’s portrait aligns with contemporary German practices of documenting notable individuals, combining artistic skill with the commercial demands of a growing market for printed likenesses.