Artwork

Richard Martin

Richard Martin, by Simon van de Passe, ink, 1620
Richard Martin, by Simon van de Passe, ink, 1620

Richard Martin is an ink print by the Baroque artist Simon van de Passe. It dates from 1620 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Simon van de Passe's 1620 engraving, Richard Martin, is a portrait of a dignified man set within a decorative oval border. The subject wears a dark jacket, sash, and prominent ruff, with his right hand resting on a book against a plain background.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving portrays Richard Martin, whose identity and context are not specified in the available information. His serious expression and direct gaze engage the viewer, while the book suggests an association with learning or scholarship.

Technique & Style

The engraving showcases van de Passe's mastery of intricate line work and texture, achieving depth and dimension through techniques such as cross-hatching. The overall style is characteristic of early 17th-century portrait engravings.

History & Provenance

Created in 1620, the engraving's historical context and ownership history prior to its current status are not detailed in the provided information.

Context

Richard Martin fits within the broader tradition of European portrait engraving during the early 17th century, where such works served to commemorate and disseminate the likenesses of notable figures.

Legacy

The engraving's impact or influence on subsequent artistic practices is not specified in the available details, though it remains an example of van de Passe's contributory work to the period's engraving techniques.

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.