Who painted Hans Bol?

Hans Bol was painted by Hendrick Goltzius in 1593.

Where can I see Hans Bol?

Hans Bol is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Hans Bol?

Hans Bol is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Hans Bol?

Museum-quality prints of Hans Bol are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Hans Bol

Hendrick Goltzius , 1593

Hans Bol is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Hendrick Goltzius. It dates from 1593 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:in image, in oval frame around portrait: IOANNES BOLLIVS MECHLINIENSI PICTOR. AET. LVIII. Ao M.D.XCIII; in image, in cartouche below portrait: Caelatam Vitrici effigiem Francisce tuêre, / Virtutem spectato magis, vitamqué probatum, / Pictricem admirâre manum, qua florida Tempe, / Et nemus Alcinoi penicillo aequavit amaenum. / Dedicat hanc grato tibi pectore Goltzius, at tu / Pignus amicitiae laeta cape mente, manuque. (Frans, regard the engraved portrait of your stepfather. Look rather at his virtue and his good life. Men admired the hand of the painter with which he rivalled the flowering Vale of Tempe and Alcinous's delightful forest with his brush. Goltzius gratefully dedicates this portrait to you; will you accept this token of our friendship gladly and with cheerful hand.); in image, at bottom left: HG. [Latin translation from Leeflang, Huigen, and Ger Luijten. _Hendrick Goltzius (1558-1617): Drawings, Prints and Paintings._ Amsterdam: Rijksmuseum, 2003, p. 162.]

About this work

Overview

This 1593 engraving by Hendrick Goltzius portrays Hans Bol, capturing his gentle demeanor in meticulous detail. Characteristic of the Northern Mannerism and early Baroque period, the work showcases Goltzius's technical prowess in printmaking.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Hans Bol, is depicted in antiquated attire, his serene face the central focus. The engraving likely serves as a portrait, highlighting Bol's personality through subtle, expressive lines.

Technique & Style

Goltzius employed an intricate network of lines to achieve rich texture and depth, a hallmark of his sophisticated engraving technique during this era. The dense linework exemplifies the artist's mastery of his medium.

History & Provenance

Created in 1593, this engraving solidifies Goltzius's position as a leading Dutch printmaker of the late 16th century. While the work's subsequent ownership history is not detailed here, its creation date anchors it within Goltzius's prominent output period.

Context

This work aligns with the artistic currents of Northern Mannerism and the emerging Baroque style, characterized by detailed realism and expressive intensity. Goltzius's technique influenced the development of Dutch printmaking.

Legacy

As a testament to Goltzius's skill, this engraving contributes to his legacy as a master printer of his time. It remains a significant example of his ability to capture nuanced portraiture through engraving.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Hendrick Goltzius

Hendrick Goltzius (German: , Dutch: ; né Goltz; January or February 1558 – 1 January 1617) was a German-born Dutch printmaker, draftsman, and painter.