Portret van Darcy Wentworth 1624

Willem de Passe created this engraving of Darcy Wentworth in 1624. As a portrait, the work is concerned with conveying status and character, but it also provides insights into the institutions of power and representation in the 17th century. De Passe was part of a network of printmakers active in England and the Netherlands, producing images for a growing market of collectors and enthusiasts. The inclusion of Wentworth’s coat of arms and a Latin inscription indicates the sitter's social standing and education. Wentworth is portrayed in elaborate clothing, signifying wealth and authority. Note the intricate details of his garments, which are meticulously rendered through the art of engraving. This work reflects the hierarchies of the time. Prints like this helped to solidify social status. Understanding the art of this period requires looking into the systems of patronage, print culture, and the circulation of images that shaped both the production and reception of art.