Artwork
William Butler, Physician
William Butler, Physician 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 William Butler, a physician, in a formal pose. The figure wears a dark robe and hat, accented by a crisp white collar and cuffs, and is seated at a table while gazing directly at the viewer. The image is reproduced as a facsimile, preserving the original’s composition and detail.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait emphasizes Butler’s professional stature through his attire and composed demeanor. The solemn expression and direct eye contact convey confidence and authority, typical of early‑modern representations of learned men. The inclusion of a table suggests a scholarly environment, reinforcing his identity as a medical practitioner.
Technique & Style
Executed in fine line engraving, the work showcases van de Passe’s command of cross‑hatching to model form and create atmospheric depth. The meticulous rendering of facial features and textile folds demonstrates the artist’s skill in translating texture and volume onto paper, while the subtle background pattern adds spatial nuance without distracting from the subject.
History & Provenance
Created in 1621, the print was later reproduced as a facsimile, indicating the existence of an earlier original plate. Copies have circulated among collections of early‑modern portraiture, reflecting the continued interest in van de Passe’s portraiture and the historical figure of William Butler.
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