Military & Political · 18th century
€ 380
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
for age. Paper with light toning and minimal foxing. No tears or repairs. Crisp impressions with visible plate marks and strong lines.
Dutch Statesmen and Military Leaders – Beverningk, Hop, and Van Coehoorn
This fine 18th-century copper engraving set presents three eminent figures of the Dutch Republic: Hieronymus van Beverningk, Mr. Jacob Hop, and Menno Baron van Coehoorn. Rendered with meticulous detail and framed within elegant oval borders, these portraits capture both the dignity and the authority of men who played key roles in the political and military history of the United Provinces.
On the left is Hieronymus van Beverningk (1614–1690), Treasurer-General of the United Netherlands and a prominent diplomat. He was instrumental in negotiating the Peace of Münster (1648), which ended the Eighty Years’ War and secured Dutch independence. His composed expression and refined lace cravat reflect his statesmanlike composure.
In the center is Mr. Jacob Hop (1654–1710), Councillor and Treasurer-General of the United Netherlands. A senior figure in the financial administration of the Republic, Hop’s career reflects the essential role of fiscal policy in maintaining Dutch naval and military strength during a period of intense European conflict. The engraving shows him with flowing curls, a confident gaze, and stately attire.
On the right is Menno Baron van Coehoorn (1641–1704), a celebrated Dutch military engineer and General of Artillery. Known as the “Dutch Vauban,” Van Coehoorn revolutionized fortress design and siege warfare. His innovative defensive systems were used throughout Europe, and his portrait in armor underscores his military brilliance and strategic influence.
The engravings are distinguished by fine crosshatching, precise facial characterization, and careful rendering of textures, from silken garments to polished armor. Together, they serve as enduring tributes to three men whose leadership shaped the Dutch Republic’s Golden Age of diplomacy, finance, and military science.
Condition: Good for age. Paper with light toning and minimal foxing. No tears or repairs. Crisp impressions with visible plate marks and strong lines.
Framing tips: Best displayed as a set in a single frame with a triple-aperture mount. A black or deep walnut frame with a cream mount and gold inner border will enhance the portraits’ historic character while uniting them visually.
Technique: Copper engraving
Maker: Dutch engraver, Netherlands, c.1750
