James I, King of England [top half]

Art Historical Context

Behold Simon de Passe's exquisite engraving *James I, King of [top half]*, a delicate print pulled from a silver medal meticulously engraved by the artist himself. Dating to the late 16th century (circa 1551–1600), this tiny masterpiece measures just 5.7 × 4.8 cm, showcasing the precision of Renaissance-era printmaking. Housed in the National Gallery Art's Rosenwald Collection (Department CG-E), it exemplifies the classification of prints as a medium for reproducing intricate designs with remarkable fidelity. James I (1566–1625), who ascended the English throne in 1603 as the first Stuart king, united the crowns of England and Scotland, ushering in an era of cultural flourishing, including the works of Shakespeare. This portrait captures the upper half of the monarch, likely emphasizing his regal features and authority. De Passe, a skilled Dutch engraver active in England, transformed the silver medal into an accessible engraving, allowing the king's image to circulate widely among the elite—a key tool for royal propaganda in an age before photography. The technique is fascinating: engraving on silver demanded masterful control, with the resulting print preserving fine details like texture and expression on a miniature scale. Such works highlight the artistic innovation of the period, bridging sculpture and print to democratize portraiture and foster loyalty to the crown. A gem for any visitor, it invites a closer look at the artistry behind power.

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...