Figures & Portraits · 17th century
€ 340
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Very good condition for its age, with age-related toning and very minor spotting if any, mainly in the margins. The impression remains sharp, clear and well-defined. Mounted to modern paper.
Tudor Portrait Edward Seymour, Duke of Somerset, Engraving, c.1700
This finely executed late 17th to early 18th-century copperplate engraving presents a distinguished portrait of Edward Seymour, 1st Duke of Somerset, one of the most powerful figures of the Tudor era. Known as “The Protector,” Seymour served as Lord Protector of England during the minority of King Edward VI, effectively ruling the country from 1547 to 1549 following the death of Henry VIII.
The portrait depicts Seymour in half-length, dressed in richly detailed court attire, including a fur-trimmed robe and a feathered cap, emphasizing his high rank and political authority. Suspended from his neck is a medallion featuring an armored figure, adding symbolic depth to the composition. Above the portrait, the Seymour family coat of arms is prominently displayed, accompanied by the motto “Foy pour devoir” (Faith for Duty), reinforcing the themes of loyalty and noble service.
The engraving was executed by Pieter Stevens van Gunst, a highly regarded Dutch engraver, after a portrait by Adriaen van der Werff, one of the leading painters of the late Dutch Golden Age known for his refined and polished style. This print was published as part of Isaac de Larrey’s Histoire d’Angleterre et d’Ecosse, a major historical work produced around 1700 that brought portraits of key British figures to a continental European audience.
The composition combines precise portraiture with elegant Baroque ornamentation, creating a visually balanced and highly decorative print. The refined line work and subtle shading give the portrait depth and presence, making it both historically significant and aesthetically appealing.
As a decorative object, this engraving is particularly well suited for classic interiors, libraries, or gallery walls featuring historical portraits. It pairs beautifully with other Tudor or European portrait engravings, as well as with maps and prints from the same period.
Condition: Good condition for its age, with age-related toning and some spotting, mainly in the margins. The impression remains clear and well-defined. Plate mark visible.
Framing tips: Best presented with a generous ivory or museum-white mat to highlight the engraving and plate mark. A dark walnut or ebonized frame enhances contrast and lends a refined, museum-quality appearance.
Note: The image is an original antique engraving and not a reproduction. The engraving is sold unframed.
Technique: Copperplate engraving
Maker: Pieter Stevens van Gunst (after Adriaen van der Werff), Netherlands, circa 1700
