Portret van H. Franciscus van Paola by Michel van Lochom

Portret van H. Franciscus van Paola

1611 - 1647

0:00
0:00

Artwork details

Medium
drawing, intaglio, paper, engraving
Dimensions
height 147 mm, width 103 mm
Copyright
Rijks Museum: Open Domain

Tags

#portrait#drawing#baroque#intaglio#old engraving style#caricature#paper#portrait reference#portrait drawing#engraving

About this artwork

This is Michel van Lochom’s portrait of H. Franciscus van Paola, rendered in delicate lines and textures using engraving. The composition arranges the figure within an oval frame, immediately drawing the eye to the contemplative saint. Notice how van Lochom uses contrasting line weights to build form and depth. The saint’s face, etched with fine, dense lines, conveys age and wisdom, while broader strokes define the folds of his habit. This contrast in texture creates a visual hierarchy, emphasizing the saint’s humanity within the divine context suggested by the radiant "Charitas" above. The intricate ornamental border, filled with fruits and scrolling foliage, provides a counterpoint to the figure's austerity. The cartouche at the bottom anchors the composition, its inscription adding a layer of historical context to the saint's legacy. This artwork functions as both a devotional object and a carefully constructed visual narrative.

Comments

Share your thoughts