Who painted Sir John Hawkins?

Sir John Hawkins was painted by Magdalena van de Passe in 1620.

Where can I see Sir John Hawkins?

Sir John Hawkins is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Sir John Hawkins?

Sir John Hawkins is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Sir John Hawkins

Magdalena van de Passe , 1620

Sir John Hawkins 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

Created in 1620, this black‑and‑white engraving depicts Sir John Hawkins, a notable English figure of the early seventeenth century. The portrait is framed within an oval border adorned with ornamental lettering and symbols, while the background remains plain, focusing attention on the sitter’s dignified pose.

Subject & Meaning

Sir John Hawkins is shown with a full beard, moustache, and a dark hat, his attire marked by a ruffled collar and a decorative chain. The solemn expression and formal dress convey his status and the respect accorded to him in contemporary society.

Technique & Style

Magdalena van de Passe employed fine cross‑hatching to render shadows and texture, allowing subtle gradations of tone despite the medium’s reliance on ink. The meticulous line work gives the facial features a three‑dimensional quality, characteristic of early Baroque portrait engravings.

History & Provenance

The print originates from the workshop of the van de Passe family, a prominent group of Dutch engravers active in the Netherlands and England. It was likely produced for distribution among collectors and patrons interested in portraits of English naval and political personalities.

Context

During the early 1600s, portrait engravings served both as a means of documenting notable individuals and as a portable form of visual culture. Hawkins’ image reflects the period’s interest in commemorating naval leaders amid England’s expanding maritime ambitions.