Who painted John Bale, Bishop of Ossory?

John Bale, Bishop of Ossory was painted by Willem de Passe in 1620.

Where can I see John Bale, Bishop of Ossory?

John Bale, Bishop of Ossory is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is John Bale, Bishop of Ossory?

John Bale, Bishop of Ossory is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

John Bale, Bishop of Ossory

Willem de Passe , 1620

John Bale, Bishop of Ossory is an ink print by the Baroque artist Willem de Passe. It dates from 1620 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Willem de Passe's 1620 engraving, John Bale, Bishop of Ossory, is a black-and-white portrait of the titular figure, characterized by a solemn expression and distinctive attire.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, John Bale, is depicted with symbols of his office: an ornate robe with intricate patterns, a chain, and a folded paper (possibly representing a religious or official document) in his left hand. The inscription 'MAGISTER JOHN BALE' emphasizes his title and scholarly stature.

Technique & Style

Executed using the engraving technique, the work features finely carved lines on a metal plate, producing a detailed, high-contrast print. The composition is framed by a bordered headpiece with Latin text below, underscoring the subject's dignity.

History & Provenance

Created in 1620 by Willem de Passe, the engraving's history of ownership and exhibition is not detailed here, focusing instead on its creation context.

Context

As a 17th-century engraving of a religious figure, the piece reflects the era's practice of portraying clergy with symbols of their rank and learning, blending religious and scholarly identities.

Legacy

The engraving serves as a historical record of John Bale's likeness and status, contributing to the visual archive of early 17th-century ecclesiastical portraiture.