Open full image Pin

Carolus Clusius, Professor of Botany at Leyden

Jacques de Gheyn II

1601

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque Baroque

Dominant colour

Carolus Clusius, Professor of Botany at Leyden is a 1601 ink by Jacques de Gheyn II, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Jacques de Gheyn II
When & what style?: 1601 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This engraving shows a serious-looking man in the center, framed by a fancy oval border. His curly hair and beard are detailed, and he’s wearing a ruffled collar. Around him, two small figures hold up the frame like it’s a shield, and above his head is a coat of arms with a crown and strange symbols. The text around the oval praises his skills in botany and learning. The whole scene is packed with tiny carved lines and patterns, making it look almost three-dimensional. This kind of careful detail is typical of the time. Next, check out how engraving works to see how artists create these sharp, intricate lines.