Who painted John King, Bishop of London?

John King, Bishop of London was painted by Simon van de Passe in 1621.

Where can I see John King, Bishop of London?

John King, Bishop of London is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is John King, Bishop of London?

John King, Bishop of London is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

John King, Bishop of London

Simon van de Passe , 1621

John King, Bishop of London 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

Encircling the figure is a decorative inscription that includes the Latin abbreviations for “episcopus” and “Londiniensis,” identifying his office.

Simon van de Passe’s 1621 engraving presents John King, then Bishop of London, in a formal portrait. Rendered in stark black and white, the image shows the cleric with a long white beard, a ruff collar, and episcopal robes, holding a book in one hand and a sheet of paper in the other. Encircling the figure is a decorative inscription that includes the Latin abbreviations for “episcopus” and “Londiniensis,” identifying his office.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait emphasizes King’s scholarly and ecclesiastical authority. The book and paper suggest his role in theological discourse and administrative duties, while the solemn expression and dignified attire convey the gravitas expected of a senior Anglican prelate in early‑17th‑century England. The surrounding text reinforces his official title, linking the visual representation to his public identity.

Technique & Style

Executed by engraving, the image was incised with fine lines onto a copper plate, allowing for precise, controlled strokes that define the facial features, fabric folds, and ornamental lettering. This method, common for reproducing portraits in the period, enabled multiple impressions to be printed, each retaining the sharp contrast and detail characteristic of van de Passe’s work.

History & Provenance

Created in 1621, the print was likely commissioned to commemorate King’s appointment as Bishop of London. Simon van de Passe, a prominent member of the Dutch Passe family of engravers, produced the work for a market that valued portraiture of high‑ranking clergy. Surviving copies have appeared in collections of early modern English prints, documenting both the artist’s transnational network and the bishop’s contemporary prominence.