Artwork

James I, Anne of Denmark, and Prince Charles

James I, Anne of Denmark, and Prince Charles, by Simon van de Passe, ink, 1621
James I, Anne of Denmark, and Prince Charles, by Simon van de Passe, ink, 1621

James I, Anne of Denmark, and Prince Charles is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Simon van de Passe. It dates from 1621 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1621 engraving, pulled from a silver medal, depicts James I, Anne of Denmark, and Prince Charles in a circular frame, created by artist Simon van de Passe.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving portrays three key royal figures: James I (bearded, wearing a hat and ruffled shirt), Anne of Denmark (light-haired, with a lace collar), and below them, presumably Prince Charles (curly-haired, with a high collar), capturing a familial snapshot of the British monarchy.

Technique & Style

Executed through engraving, the work features fine-lined facial details, characteristic of Renaissance portrait styles, resulting in a detailed yet simple appearance.

History & Provenance

Created in 1621 by Simon van de Passe, the engraving's origin is tied to its medium as a design for a silver medal, though its current ownership and full historical trajectory are not specified here.

Context

Reflecting the artistic preferences of the Renaissance, this engraving aligns with the period's penchant for precise, detailed portraits, particularly in metalwork and print designs for royal commemoration.

Legacy

As a portrait of key royal figures from the early 17th century, this engraving serves as a historical record of the monarchy's representation during James I's reign, though its broader artistic impact or influence on subsequent works is not detailed here.

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.