Art, Myth & Old Masters
€ 130
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Strong, clean impression with slight even age-toning. Faint spotting in outer margin, minimal edge wear. No tears or losses, but right margin short.
Antique Portrait Isabella Clara Eugenia – Etching by Houbraken, 18th Century
This elegant 18th-century portrait depicts Isabella Clara Eugenia (1566–1633), Infanta of Spain and sovereign of the Spanish Netherlands, rendered with refined detail by the acclaimed Dutch engraver Jacobus Houbraken (1698–1780). The sitter is identified beneath the portrait as "Isabella Clara Eugenia, Infante van Spanje, Gemalin van den Aartshertog Albertus,” referencing her marriage to Archduke Albert of Austria.
Isabella Clara Eugenia was the daughter of Philip II of Spain and his third wife, Elisabeth of Valois. As co-sovereign with her husband over the Habsburg Netherlands, she played a notable political role during a period marked by religious conflict and the Eighty Years' War. After Albert's death, she served as governor on behalf of the Spanish crown and remained a devout patron of the Catholic Church and the arts.
Houbraken’s engraving captures her regal presence with exquisite craftsmanship. The composition is framed in an oval cartouche, typical of formal 18th-century portraiture, and shows Isabella in richly embroidered garments and an elaborate lace ruff. The detailed rendering of her costume and hair ornamentation underscores both her royal status and the period’s taste for opulent fashion.
Houbraken’s mastery of line and texture is especially evident in the handling of the lace, jewelry, and facial features, achieving both realism and a sense of dignity. This portrait was likely published as part of a biographical or historical series highlighting European nobility and political figures.
A superb example of 18th-century Dutch engraving, this print is of interest to collectors of royal portraiture, Spanish history, and works by Houbraken.
Condition: Strong, clean impression with slight even age-toning. Faint spotting in outer margin, minimal edge wear. No tears or losses, but right margin short.
Framing tips: A black or dark walnut frame with an ivory or light grey mount will emphasize the intricate linework and lend a stately presence to the print.
Technique: Etching and engraving
Maker: Jacobus Houbraken, Amsterdam, c. 1750s–1770s
