Artwork
John Goodhand Holt
John Goodhand Holt is an ink print by the Baroque artist David Loggan. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
David Loggan's 1660 engraving, John Goodhand Holt, is a portrait print rendered in black and white. It depicts a man distinguished by curly hair, a high collar, and ornate attire, set against a plain background with a decorative head border.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, John Goodhand Holt, is portrayed with a serious yet calm demeanor, his hands clasped over his chest. A chain necklace and lace cuffs suggest a position of significance. An accompanying poem refers to him as a 'Jewell of the Mind', implying intellectual or societal importance.
Technique & Style
Loggan employed fine lines to achieve depth through shading and texture, notably in the subject's face, which appears nearly three-dimensional. The work exemplifies the detailed, high-contrast aesthetic characteristic of 17th-century engraving techniques.
History & Provenance
Created in 1660, specific details about the engraving's history, ownership, or exhibition record are not provided in the available information.
Context
The piece reflects the portraiture conventions of its time, emphasizing the subject's status through attire and accessories. The use of engraving aligns with 17th-century practices for producing and disseminating portraits.
Legacy
While the engraving's direct influence or widespread recognition is not detailed, it contributes to the broader understanding of 17th-century engraving practices and portraiture.
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