Dutch Naval Leaders – Florisz, Sweers, and Van Nes, c.1750 Copper Engravings
€ 380
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Date
1750
Sheet size
21.8 × 13.5 cm (8.6 × 5.3 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13185-61, -75, -79
Condition
for age. Clean paper with only light toning to the margins, occasional minor foxing, and faint handling marks. No major tears or repairs. Plate marks visible around each portrait, adding authenticity. Paper remains strong and stable.
About this sheet
Dutch Naval Leaders – Florisz, Sweers, and Van Nes, c.1750 Copper Engravings
This set of three finely engraved 18th-century portraits presents prominent naval commanders of the Dutch Republic: Pieter Florisz, Vice-Admiral of Holland and West Friesland; Isaak Sweers, Vice-Admiral of Holland and West Friesland; and Aerd van Nes, Lieutenant-Admiral of Holland and West Friesland. Each portrait is enclosed within a decorative oval frame, accompanied by a nameplate in elegant block lettering.
Pieter Florisz (1602–1658) was a distinguished Dutch admiral who served during the First Anglo-Dutch War, earning recognition for his leadership at the Battle of Scheveningen. Isaak Sweers (1622–1673) rose to prominence as a skilled strategist during the Second Anglo-Dutch War and played a significant role in various fleet actions. Aerd van Nes (1626–1693) was a celebrated commander noted for his bravery at the Four Days' Battle (1666) and the Raid on the Medway (1667), key moments in Dutch maritime history.
Produced around 1750, these copper engravings combine artistic elegance with documentary value. The crisp line work captures intricate facial details, elaborate clothing, and the stylised wig fashions of the time. The prints likely formed part of a larger series commemorating celebrated Dutch military and naval leaders, reflecting the national pride in the maritime power of the Dutch Golden Age.
Technique: Copper engraving on laid paper, with fine cross-hatching and tonal shading to convey depth and volume. The precision of the engraver’s hand is evident in the textures of the lace cravats, brocaded sashes, and ornamental frames.
Condition: Good for age. Clean paper with only light toning to the margins, occasional minor foxing, and faint handling marks. No major tears or repairs. Plate marks visible around each portrait, adding authenticity. Paper remains strong and stable.
Framing tips: A dark walnut or black frame will enhance the portraits’ formality, paired with an off-white or ivory mount to highlight the engraving’s tonal range. For a more period-authentic look, consider a gilt moulding with a subtle antique finish, complemented by a cream double mount.
