Who painted Sir Francis Drake?

Sir Francis Drake was painted by Jodocus Hondius I in 1588.

Where can I see Sir Francis Drake?

Sir Francis Drake is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Sir Francis Drake?

Sir Francis Drake is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Sir Francis Drake?

Museum-quality prints of Sir Francis Drake are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Sir Francis Drake

Jodocus Hondius I , 1588

Sir Francis Drake is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jodocus Hondius I. It dates from 1588 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1588 by the Flemish cartographer and engraver Jodocus Hondius I, this portrait depicts Sir Francis Drake, the English explorer and privateer renowned for completing the second circumnavigation of the globe between 1577 and 1580. The engraving presents Drake in a formal, three-quarter view, dressed in the elaborate attire of a high-ranking Elizabethan gentleman, including a prominent ruff collar and a buttoned coat. His left hand rests authoritatively on the hilt of a sword, symbolizing his military role as a vice admiral during the defense against the Spanish Armada in the same year the print was issued.

The composition is framed by two allegorical vignettes that contextualize his achievements: a globe highlighting the continents of America and Asia to mark his global voyage, and a ship navigating near a fortified city, likely referencing his naval exploits and raids. Hondius produced this work to commemorate Drake's status as a national hero and a master navigator, solidifying his legacy in the visual culture of the late sixteenth century.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait emphasizes Drake’s status as an explorer and naval commander. The globe bearing the names of two continents alludes to his voyages across the Atlantic and Pacific, while the ship near a settlement reinforces his maritime achievements. The sword and formal dress convey both martial authority and courtly recognition, suggesting a blend of martial prowess and royal favor.

Technique & Style

The miniature vignettes are rendered with reduced scale yet retain the same meticulous line work, integrating narrative detail within the portrait.

Executed through copper engraving, Hondius employed fine incised lines and cross‑hatching to model the fabrics, armor, and background elements. The high contrast between dark shadows and delicate highlights creates a realistic texture, particularly in the ruff and coat. The miniature vignettes are rendered with reduced scale yet retain the same meticulous line work, integrating narrative detail within the portrait.

History & Provenance

Created in 1588, the print coincides with the year Drake was knighted by Queen Elizabeth I for his circumnavigation. Hondius, a prominent Dutch engraver, produced the image likely for distribution among patrons and admirers of Drake’s exploits. Surviving copies are held in several European and American collections, reflecting the work’s role in commemorating the English seafarer’s contemporary reputation.