Who painted Monument of Bacon in Saint Michael's Church, Saint Albans?

Monument of Bacon in Saint Michael's Church, Saint Albans was painted by Unknown 19th Century in 1626.

Where can I see Monument of Bacon in Saint Michael's Church, Saint Albans?

Monument of Bacon in Saint Michael's Church, Saint Albans is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Monument of Bacon in Saint Michael's Church, Saint Albans?

Monument of Bacon in Saint Michael's Church, Saint Albans is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Monument of Bacon in Saint Michael's Church, Saint Albans

Unknown 19th Century , 1626

Monument of Bacon in Saint Michael's Church, Saint Albans is an ink print by the Baroque artist Unknown 19th Century. It dates from 1626 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. The print is an engraving that records a sculptural monument situated within Saint Michael’s Church in Saint Albans.

About this work

Overview

The print is an engraving that records a sculptural monument situated within Saint Michael’s Church in Saint Albans. The composition centers on a niche containing a figure, framed by an arched top and a rectangular plinth, set against a plain brick wall. The work captures the monument’s architectural setting and decorative details with precise line work.

Subject & Meaning

The sculpted figure is a male portrait, dressed in a hat, cloak, and elaborate attire. He rests his right hand on his face while his left hand grasps a sword, suggesting a commemorative or martial theme. An inscription on the base, though too small to decipher in the engraving, indicates the piece functions as a memorial.

Technique & Style

Executed in fine cross‑hatching, the engraving achieves a realistic sense of texture and depth, rendering the stone niche, clothing folds, and brick background with meticulous detail. The handling of light and shadow reflects the technical skill typical of Baroque‑influenced printmaking, emphasizing three‑dimensional form on a two‑dimensional surface.

History & Provenance

The image documents a specific monument within Saint Michael’s Church, a historic parish church in Saint Albans. While the engraving’s date and creator are not supplied, its detailed representation suggests it was produced to record the church’s interior furnishings, possibly for antiquarian or devotional purposes.

Context

Monuments of this type were common in post‑medieval English churches, serving as memorials to local dignitaries or benefactors. The inclusion of a sword and contemplative pose aligns with the iconography of martial or civic honor prevalent in early modern commemorative sculpture.