Artwork
Henry VII of England
Henry VII of England is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Michel Lasne. It dates from 1628 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This engraving is a print portrait of Henry VII of England, created by French engraver Michel Lasne in 1628. The work is a formal representation of the monarch, rendered in black and white.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts Henry VII in ornate attire, holding a staff and an object, with a crown and coat of arms in the background. The Latin phrase 'Cor Regis Inscrutabile' is inscribed on a banner at the bottom, translating to 'The heart of the king is unfathomable'.
Technique & Style
Lasne employed fine lines and shading to achieve depth and detail, particularly in the subject's face and clothing. This style, characteristic of Renaissance portraiture, emphasizes the sitter's power and status.
History & Provenance
Michel Lasne, born around 1590 in Caen, trained under prominent artists Peter Paul Rubens and Anthony van Dyck in Antwerp before establishing his career in Paris by 1621.
Artist & collection
Artist
Michel Lasne (Caen, ca. 1590–4 December 1667, Paris), was a French engraver, draughtsman and collector. Lasne was born in Caen and was the son of a goldsmith. He was a member of the Guild of Saint Luke in Antwerp for…
