Artwork

William Camden

William Camden, by Unknown 19th Century, ink, 1636
William Camden, by Unknown 19th Century, ink, 1636

William Camden is an ink print by the Baroque artist Unknown 19th Century. It dates from 1636 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This print is an engraved portrait of William Camden, presented in a decorative oval frame with various symbolic elements.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts a bearded man with a high collar, surrounded by symbols such as a skull, crossed bones, and a cherub holding a spear, which may allude to themes of mortality and fame.

Technique & Style

The engraving features intricate lines and detailed decoration, characteristic of 17th-century printmaking, with a dense border containing flowers, a coat of arms, and Latin inscriptions on scrolls.

Context

The style of decoration and the use of symbolic motifs were typical of the 1600s, reflecting the artistic tastes and conventions of the time.

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.