Large Portrait of Vice Admiral Abraham van der Hulst – Dutch Naval Hero, c.1666
€ 990
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1666
Mapmaker / artist
Jan (Johannes) de Visscher, Amsterdam, circa 1666
Technique
Etching and engraving on laid paper
Sheet size
52.4 × 37.5 cm (20.6 × 14.8 in)
Reference
BGM956
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Very good condition with a strong, clean impression and wide margins. Minor age toning and faint handling consistent with age. Plate mark visible all around.
About this sheet
An impressive and finely executed 17th-century etching and engraving titled “De Onsterfelijcke Zeehelt Abraham vander Hulst, Viceadmirael van Hollant en Westvrieslant” (“The Immortal Sea Hero Abraham van der Hulst, Vice Admiral of Holland and West Friesland”). This commanding portrait was engraved by Jan (Johannes) de Visscher after his own design, around 1666 — the year commemorated in the inscription.
The image presents Abraham van der Hulst (1619–1666), one of the celebrated admirals of the Dutch Republic, shown in half-length within an elaborate Baroque frame adorned with palm leaves and a richly decorated coat of arms. He stands confidently, holding his command baton, symbolizing naval authority and triumph. The background reveals a dramatic seascape with ships in battle, referencing his distinguished service during the Anglo-Dutch Wars.
Van der Hulst’s illustrious career began in 1650 when he was appointed extraordinary captain. He rose rapidly through the ranks, serving as captain of the Groningen during the First Anglo-Dutch War and later as flag captain to Vice-Admiral Witte de With on the Vrijheid. He fought heroically at the Battle of the Gabbard and the Battle of Scheveningen in 1653, key engagements in the struggle for naval supremacy against England. Promoted to Vice Admiral of Holland and West Friesland, he commanded Dutch fleets with distinction until his death in action during the Four Days’ Battle of 1666 — one of the most remarkable naval battles of the 17th century.
This engraving stands as both a portrait and a monument to the maritime heroism of the Dutch Golden Age, combining technical mastery with symbolic detail. The Latin inscription at the base, “Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori” (“It is sweet and fitting to die for one’s country”), reinforces the theme of patriotic sacrifice.
Sheet size: 531 x 372 mm. Platemark: 508 x 356 mm.
Framing tips: Ideally presented in a period-style gilt or ebonized frame with a soft cream or linen mount to emphasize the fine tonal contrasts and stately presence of the composition.
