Artwork
Sir Francis Bacon
Sir Francis Bacon is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Simon van de Passe. It dates from 1621 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Simon van de Passe’s 1621 engraving presents Sir Francis Bacon in a formal portrait. The composition centers a bearded, moustached figure wearing a hat, a ruffled collar, and a dark cloak. His gaze meets the viewer directly, set against a shadowy background that accentuates his facial features and attire.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait captures Bacon as a learned gentleman, his solemn expression suggesting intellectual seriousness. The emphasis on his beard and clothing conveys status and dignity, aligning with early‑17th‑century conventions for depicting scholars and officials.
Technique & Style
Van de Passe employs fine cross‑hatching throughout the plate, producing nuanced textures in the hair, fabric, and shadows. The dense line work creates depth and a tactile quality, characteristic of the engraving process in the period.
History & Provenance
Created in 1621, the print reflects van de Passe’s role as a leading engraver in the Dutch and English courts. Original impressions circulated among collectors of the era, and the work remains a primary visual source for Bacon’s appearance.
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