Henry IV and Maria de Medici

Art Historical Context

This delicate engraving, titled *Henry IV and Maria de Medici was created by the Dutch artist Simon de Passe between 1551 and 1600. Measuring just 6.2 × 5.2 cm, it reproduces a silver medal meticulously engraved by the artist himself, showcasing his skill in miniature portraiture. Housed in the National Gallery Art's Rosenwald CollectionDepartment CG-E), this print exemplifies the era's fascination with portable, reproducible royal imagery. Henry IV, King of France from 1589 to 1610, and his queen consort Maria de Medici represent a pivotal moment in European history. Henry, a former Protestant who converted to Catholicism to unite the kingdom, issued the Edict of Nantes in 1598, granting religious tolerance and ending decades of civil war. Maria, an Italian noblewoman from the powerful Medici family, bore him six children and later served as regent, wielding significant political influence. De Passe's work captures their regal profiles, likely commemorating their union and dynasty. As a print derived from a silver medal, the piece highlights the technical innovation of engraving, which allowed precious metal designs to be mass-reproduced on paper. This democratized access to elite portraiture, blending sculpture and printmaking traditions during the late Renaissance. A charming gem for visitors, it invites reflection on power, legacy, and artistry in miniature form.

About the Artist

Simon de Passe · 1590–1647

Simon de Passe (c. 1595–1647), born in Cologne to the renowned Dutch engraver and publisher Crispijn van de Passe the Elder and his wife Magdalene, grew up in a family dynasty of printmakers who had fled Antwerp due to religious persecution as Anabaptists. The second son among five siblings—four of whom became engravers, including brothers Crispijn II and Willem, and sister Magdalena—he trained un...