1650 Engraved Portrait of Edward VI after Holbein by Hollar

A very fine condition mounted, framed and glazed, rare 1650 engraved portrait of the Infant Edward VI, son of King Henry VIII, after the portrait painted by Hans Holbein the Younger, in 1538.

The engraving is by Wenceslaus Hollar and shows the short- lived Prince of Wales in a mirror image to the original painting. The painting was the earliest and only known portrait of Edward by Holbein. Both the painting and the engraving show the prince in an adult pose, holding the rattle as if it was a sceptre. The is a large cartouche with an inscription in Latin, praising both the child and his father, written by Richard Morison, who was the King’s Councillor. The engraving is titled EDWARDVS VI ANGLIAE REX etc. HENRICI VIII FILIUS, natus 1537. In very small script: H Holbein pinxit Wenceflaus Hollar fecit ex Collectione Arundliana Ao. 1650.

Wenceslaus Hollar (1607 - 1677) was a prolific and accomplished Bohemian graphic artist of the 17th century, who spent much of his life in England. He is particularly noted for his engravings and etchings. He was born in Prague, died in London, and was buried at St Margaret's Church, Westminster.

Size image: 27 x 20 cm ( 10 5/8 x 7 7/8 inches)
Size frame: 48.5 x 39 x 1.8 cm (19 1/8 x 15 3/8 x 5/8 inches)
Weight: 1373 g