Artwork
James I
James I is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Unknown 19th Century. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This print is an engraving portraying King James I seated in full regal attire. The monarch is depicted with a formal, composed expression, emphasizing his authority. The work is part of the collection at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, where it can be examined in detail.
Subject & Meaning
The image focuses on the figure of James I, highlighting his status through elaborate robes and a crown. The rigid facial demeanor underscores the conventions of royal portraiture, presenting the king as a dignified and unapproachable sovereign.
Technique & Style
Executed with fine, closely spaced lines, the engraving employs dense cross‑hatching to model the shadows on the king’s garments and headpiece. This method creates a sense of depth and the tactile weight of the fabric, while the precise line work defines the intricate details of the royal regalia.
History & Provenance
The print is held by the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Its presence in this public institution allows scholars and visitors to study the work within a broader context of early modern portrait engravings.
Artist & collection
Artist
