Artwork
Duke of Alva
Duke of Alva is an ink print by the Baroque artist William Marshall. It dates from 1642 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
A caption at the bottom of the engraving reads "FERDINAND Alvarez de Toledo Duke of Alva, Viceroy of the Netherlands under Philip the 2d.
This engraving depicts a man with a long, bushy beard and mustache, wearing a high-collared shirt. The image is rendered in black and white, with intricate cross-hatching creating texture and depth. The man's gaze is directed to the right, and his expression is serious.
A caption at the bottom of the engraving reads "FERDINAND Alvarez de Toledo Duke of Alva, Viceroy of the Netherlands under Philip the 2d. He dyed in Portugall Anno Dni 1582. in the 75 yeare of his Age." This provides context for the subject of the engraving.
The level of detail and realism achieved through cross-hatching makes this engraving a notable example of the Baroque movement.
Overview
The Duke of Alva is an engraving created by William Marshall in 1642, featuring a detailed portrait of a historical figure.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts Ferdinand Alvarez de Toledo, Duke of Alva, a former Viceroy of the Netherlands under Philip II, with a caption providing biographical information, including his death in Portugal in 1582 at the age of 75.
Technique & Style
The black and white image is characterized by intricate cross-hatching, which creates texture and depth, exemplifying the technical skill of the engraver and the style of the Baroque period.
Artist & collection
