Artwork
Sir Anthony Shirley, Traveler and Ambassador to Persia
Sir Anthony Shirley, Traveler and Ambassador to Persia is an ink print by the Baroque artist Italian 17th Century. It dates from 1601 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This 17th-century engraving on laid paper portrays Sir Anthony Shirley, an English traveler and ambassador to Persia.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:recto: in plate, below image: ANTONIVS SHERLEYNS ANGLVS / EQVES AVRATVS / Magm. Sophi Persarum Legatius Sanctißo. D. N. Clem. VIII. ceteris / que Princibus Christianis huius amicitae et Auctor et Ductor / Ioannes Orlandi formis Romae In platea pasquini Anno Domini 1601. Super pmißu [?]; verso: at lower center, in brown ink, in later hand: Claude Augustin Mariette / 1694ß
About this work
If you like this style, check out engraving to see how artists used lines to create depth.
This is a black-and-white portrait of a man with a serious face and a thick beard. He’s wearing a ruffled collar and a dark, patterned jacket. Above his head is a fancy coat of arms with lions and a crown. The background is plain, so all the focus is on him.
The text at the bottom names him Antonius Sherleyns Angius and says he was an ambassador. The artist signed it in 1601, but the engraving looks like it was made later.
If you like this style, check out engraving to see how artists used lines to create depth.
Overview
This 17th-century engraving on laid paper portrays Sir Anthony Shirley, an English traveler and ambassador to Persia. The black-and-white portrait emphasizes the subject's solemn demeanor and distinctive attire.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving captures Sir Anthony Shirley's likeness, highlighting his serious expression, thick beard, ruffled collar, and ornate, dark jacket. A elaborate coat of arms above his head, featuring lions and a crown, signifies his noble status and ambassadorial role.
Technique & Style
Executed in a style suggestive of a later production despite the 1601 signature, the engraving utilizes meticulous line work to achieve depth. The plain background ensures focal concentration on the subject, exemplifying the artist's use of contrast to emphasize the figure.
History & Provenance
Signed by the artist in 1601, though the engraving's appearance indicates a potentially later creation or printing date. The Latin inscription 'Antonius Sherleyns Angius' and reference to his ambassadorial role provide historical context.
Context
Part of a broader tradition of portrait engravings commemorating European explorers and diplomats, this work reflects the era's interest in international relations and the prestige of ambassadorial positions.
Legacy
While not widely renowned, the engraving contributes to the visual record of Sir Anthony Shirley's adventures and diplomatic achievements, offering insight into early modern European perceptions of travel and ambassadorship.
Artist & collection
Artist
This Italian artist worked in the 17th century, making engravings, ink drawings, and oil paintings.
