Artwork
Willmus Burton de Falde (William Burton de Falde)

Willmus Burton de Falde (William Burton de Falde) 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
Around him are symbols like a crown, a shield with stars, and a banner with his name: Willmus Burton de Falde.
This black-and-white engraving shows a serious-looking man in a dark coat and ruffled collar. He’s holding a hat in one hand and a folded piece of paper in the other, standing against a dark background. Around him are symbols like a crown, a shield with stars, and a banner with his name: Willmus Burton de Falde.
The tiny details, like the sunburst in the roundel at his feet, hint at his status. This print was made in 1622 using a technique that relies on sharp lines and shading.
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Overview
Willmus Burton de Falde is a 1622 engraving by Francis Delaram, depicting a dignified figure in elaborate attire, accompanied by playful cherubs and symbolic elements, executed in black-and-white with sharp lines and shading.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving portrays William Burton de Falde, a figure of apparent prominence, indicated by symbols such as a crown, star-emblazoned shield, and a sunburst motif, suggesting his elevated status.
Technique & Style
Delaram employed a technique emphasizing sharp lines and shading to create depth. The work showcases a mix of precise figure rendering and less detailed backgrounds, with cherubs reflecting Flemish influences, potentially from training linked to Cornelis Boel.
History & Provenance
Created in 1622 by English engraver Francis Delaram, active 1615-late 1620s, known for portraits, landscapes, and illustrations, including contributions to William Camden’s Historie.
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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…
















