Artwork
Frederick Henry of Nassau
Frederick Henry of Nassau is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jacob van Meurs. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Jacob van Meurs’ 1650 engraving presents Frederick Henry of Nassau in an oval format. The portrait shows the nobleman in a dark, buttoned jacket, a conspicuous medal, and a neatly trimmed mustache, set against a sombre backdrop framed by an inscribed border.
Subject & Meaning
The work depicts Frederick Henry, a prominent member of the House of Nassau, rendered with a solemn expression and a sideways gaze that conveys authority and restraint. The inclusion of his medal underscores his status and achievements within the Dutch aristocracy.
Technique & Style
Executed in fine line engraving, the image demonstrates van Meurs’ meticulous handling of texture, especially in the rendering of hair, fabric folds, and the intricate detailing of the collar and medal. The oval composition and dark background are characteristic of mid‑seventeenth‑century portrait prints, emphasizing a formal, dignified presence.
History & Provenance
Created in 1650, the print was produced during a period when portrait engravings served both commemorative and disseminative functions, circulating the likeness of notable figures across the Dutch Republic. The work is attributed to Jacob van Meurs, a known engraver and publisher active in Amsterdam during the mid‑Baroque era.
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