Artwork

Samuel Purchas

Samuel Purchas, by Unknown 19th Century, ink, 1624
Samuel Purchas, by Unknown 19th Century, ink, 1624

Samuel Purchas is an ink print by the Baroque artist Unknown 19th Century. It dates from 1624 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

The man in the image appears to be a scholar or clergyman, given his attire and the book he is holding.

This image is a black-and-white engraving of a man with a long white beard and hair. He is wearing a dark robe with a high collar and is holding a book in his right hand. The book has handwritten text on its pages. Above the man's head, there is a banner with illegible text. The background of the image is a light color with faint, illegible text.

The man in the image appears to be a scholar or clergyman, given his attire and the book he is holding. The engraving style suggests that it was created in the 19th century.

This engraving is reminiscent of the work of artists who specialized in cross-hatching techniques.

Overview

This print is an engraving of Samuel Purchas, a figure depicted with a long white beard and hair, dressed in a dark robe. He holds a book with handwritten text.

Subject & Meaning

The subject's attire and the book he holds suggest that he is a scholar or clergyman. The handwritten text on the book's pages adds to the impression of his scholarly nature.

Technique & Style

The engraving is characterized by its use of cross-hatching techniques, evident in the contrast between light and dark areas. The style is consistent with 19th-century engraving practices.

Context

The image's style and technique suggest it was created during the 19th century, a period when engraving was a prominent medium for portraiture and illustration.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.