Hoop (Spes) 1593

pencil drawn

shading to add clarity

pencil sketch

old engraving style

portrait reference

pencil drawing

pen-ink sketch

limited contrast and shading

portrait drawing

pencil work

"Hoop (Spes)" (1593) is an engraving by Jacob Matham depicting a female figure personifying Hope. She stands gracefully, her body draped in flowing garments, holding a large anchor and a dagger. The figure's posture and gaze suggest a confident and unwavering faith. The engraving is characterized by its delicate line work and subtle shading, emphasizing the figure's anatomical detail and the texture of the fabric. Matham's careful attention to detail and the emotive expression of the figure contribute to the powerful and symbolic nature of the artwork.