Artwork

Denzil, First Baron Holles

Denzil, First Baron Holles, by Robert White, ink, 1699
Denzil, First Baron Holles, by Robert White, ink, 1699

Denzil, First Baron Holles is an ink print by the Baroque artist Robert White. It dates from 1699 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Around his head is a wreath of leaves and flowers, and below him is a small shield with a coat of arms.

This is a black-and-white portrait of a man with curly hair and a serious expression. He’s wearing a fancy collar and a coat with buttons. Around his head is a wreath of leaves and flowers, and below him is a small shield with a coat of arms.

The name at the bottom reads *"The Right Honble Denzil Baron Holles of Ifield"* with dates 1676–1679. This was made as an engraved print, not a painted picture.

Want to see more? Check out engraving to learn how artists carved these detailed images.

Overview

This 1699 engraving by Robert White portrays Denzil, First Baron Holles. The black-and-white print features a detailed likeness of Holles, set against a simple background with heraldic elements.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Denzil Holles, is depicted with a serious expression, wearing formal attire and surrounded by a wreath and a coat of arms. The inscription at the bottom identifies him as 'The Right Honble Denzil Baron Holles of Ifield', with dates 1676–1679, likely referencing his tenure in a notable position.

Technique & Style

The engraving showcases White's skill in capturing individual features through his mastery of the engraving technique. The work is characteristic of White's style, which was influenced by his teacher David Loggan and involved creating detailed images.

History & Provenance

Robert White, a prominent portrait engraver in late 17th-century London, created this print. He worked in a pencil-on-vellum style and produced original likenesses of notable contemporaries throughout his career, until his death in 1703.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Robert White

Artist

Robert White

Robert White (1645 – 1703) was an English draughtsman and engraver. A Londoner, he was a pupil of David Loggan, and became a leading portrait engraver. White was celebrated for his original portraits, drawn in pencil on…

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