Sir William Butts 1649

This etching of Sir William Butts by Wenceslaus Hollar from 1649 is a detailed and striking portrait of a prominent English physician and friend of King Henry VIII. Hollar, known for his meticulous attention to detail, captures Butts's likeness with precision, depicting his stern expression, thick beard, and fur-trimmed collar. The etching is a testament to Hollar's skill and his ability to create a powerful image through the subtle use of light and shadow. Hollar's use of hatching and cross-hatching brings a strong sense of realism to the image, making the sitter appear three-dimensional. It is a fine example of Hollar's celebrated work.