Artwork
Willmus Burton de Falde (William Burton)
Willmus Burton de Falde (William Burton) is an ink print by the Baroque artist Francis Delaram. It dates from 1622 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
He’s holding a hat in one hand and a rolled-up paper in the other, standing in front of a table with a few small objects.
This black-and-white engraving shows a serious-looking man in a wide collar and fancy clothes. He’s holding a hat in one hand and a rolled-up paper in the other, standing in front of a table with a few small objects. Around him, there are coats of arms, a sunburst shield, and some strange symbols, like a crescent moon with stars.
The name on the scroll reads Willmus Burton de Falde, and the date 1622 is carved into the border. The artist signed it Delaram, which is a bit unusual for the time.
If you like this style, look up engraving to see how artists carved these detailed lines.
Overview
This 1622 engraving, 'Willmus Burton de Falde (William Burton)', is a portrait print by Francis Delaram, an engraver active in early 17th-century England. The black-and-white work features a formally dressed man amidst symbolic objects and heraldic devices.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, identified by a scroll as Willmus Burton de Falde (William Burton), is depicted holding a hat and a rolled-up paper, standing before a table with various objects. The surrounding coats of arms, sunburst shield, and symbols like a crescent moon with stars may allude to Burton's identity or status.
Technique & Style
Delaram's engraving reflects Flemish stylistic influence, evident in decorative elements such as musical cherubs. The print's execution varies, with the background being less detailed than other areas. The artist's signature, 'Delaram', is notable for its unusual presentation.
History & Provenance
The engraving was produced in 1622, during Delaram's active period in England. Delaram was likely of Flemish origin and may have been trained by Cornelis Boel, influencing his style and technique.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Francis Delaram (born around 1590, fl. 1615–1624 or 1627), was an English engraver. Delaram left a substantial collection of engraved portraits, landscapes and book illustrations (specifically, William Camden's…
Henricus Percye (Henry Percy, Ninth Earl of Northumberland)
Charles I, as Prince of Wales
Sir Thomas Grisham
Guliemus Segar (Sir William Segar)
Thomae Gresham Equi. Aura (Sir Thomas Gresham)
Elizabeth, Queen of Bohemia
Willmus Burton de Falde (William Burton)
Henrici VIII Angliae, Franciae et Hiberniam Rex (King Henry VIII)
