Artwork
Mary Sidney, Countess of Pembroke
Mary Sidney, Countess of Pembroke 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
Mary Sidney, Countess of Pembroke is a 1621 engraving by Simon van de Passe, presenting a formal portrait of the countess.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Mary Sidney with curly hair, wearing a lace ruff, pearls, and a high collar, holding a fan. The background features scrollwork with the inscriptions 'Nobilissima Femina' and 'Pembrokeshire', signifying her noble status and territorial association.
Technique & Style
The engraving's fine lines and shading create a detailed representation of Sidney's attire and jewelry, exemplifying a technique typical of Renaissance portraiture. The use of engraving allowed for the mass production of prints, disseminating the image widely.
Artist & collection
