Artwork

Charles I, King of England as Duke of York

Charles I, King of England as Duke of York, by Simon van de Passe, ink, 1616
Charles I, King of England as Duke of York, by Simon van de Passe, ink, 1616

Charles I, King of England as Duke of York is an ink print by the Baroque artist Simon van de Passe. It dates from 1616 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1616 engraving by Simon van de Passe portrays Charles I, then Duke of York, in a formal black-and-white portrait. The subject is depicted with curly hair, a stiff collar, and an elaborate lace ruff, set against a plain background. Surrounding text is rendered in decorative script.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving captures Charles I in his youth, before his ascension to the English throne, highlighting his status as Duke of York. His serious expression and ornate attire reflect the dignity and formality expected of royal portraiture at the time.

Technique & Style

Van de Passe employed engraving techniques, carving the design into a metal plate to produce the print. The use of tiny lines achieves detailed shading, imparting texture to the subject's face and clothing. The overall style is characteristic of early 17th-century European portrait engraving.

History & Provenance

Created in 1616, the engraving's provenance is not detailed here, though its creation predates Charles's accession to the throne in 1625. The work would have served as a circulation of the duke's likeness during his youth.

Context

This engraving reflects the practice of disseminating royal images through printmaking in early modern Europe, facilitating the widespread recognition of monarchs and nobles. It aligns with the artistic trends of the period, emphasizing realism and detail in portraiture.

Legacy

While specific influence or notable exhibitions of this engraving are not highlighted, it contributes to the broader legacy of van de Passe's oeuvre and the historical record of Charles I's represented likeness during his pre-monarchic period.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Simon van de Passe

Artist

Simon van de Passe

Simon van de Passe (1595–1647) was an artist, born in Cologne.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.