Who painted John Foxe, Martyrologist?

John Foxe, Martyrologist was painted by Magdalena van de Passe in 1620.

Where can I see John Foxe, Martyrologist?

John Foxe, Martyrologist is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is John Foxe, Martyrologist?

John Foxe, Martyrologist is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

John Foxe, Martyrologist

Magdalena van de Passe , 1620

John Foxe, Martyrologist is an ink print by the Baroque artist Magdalena van de Passe. It dates from 1620 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Magdalena van de Passe’s 1620 engraving portrays the English martyrologist John Foxe. Rendered in stark black‑and‑white, the portrait presents Foxe in a fur‑trimmed coat and hat, his long white beard framing a solemn expression. The figure is set against a dark background, with subtle gradations of light that emphasize the contours of his face and the texture of his clothing.

Subject & Meaning

The work commemorates Foxe, best known for his seminal work documenting Protestant martyrs. By depicting him with a serious, forward‑looking gaze and a furrowed brow, van de Passe underscores his scholarly gravitas and the gravity of his historical contributions, inviting viewers to contemplate the legacy of religious testimony he recorded.

Technique & Style

Executed with fine, closely spaced lines, the engraving achieves a rich tonal range through hatching and cross‑hatching. The delicate rendering of fur, fabric, and facial features demonstrates van de Passe’s mastery of line work, creating a sense of depth and texture that is characteristic of early‑17th‑century Northern European printmaking.

History & Provenance

Created in 1620, the portrait was likely intended for inclusion in a publication or as a standalone commemorative image. It reflects the van de Passe family’s prolific output of portrait engravings for the Dutch and English markets, and it has since been preserved in several museum collections documenting early modern print culture.