Plate 13: Members of the clergy marching in the funeral procession of Archduke Albert of Austria; from 'Pompa Funebris ... Alberti Pii'

Art Historical Context

This etching, Plate 13 from Jacques Francquart's monumental series *Pompa Funebris... Alberti Pii* (1623), captures a poignant moment in the grand funeral procession of Archduke Albert of Austria (1559–1621), the Habsburg ruler who governed the Spanish Netherlands. Published shortly after his death, the series documents the lavish ceremonies in Brussels, blending solemn ritual with opulent display to honor a key figure in Counter-Reformation Europe. Here, members of the clergy march reverently, cross in hand, underscoring the deep religious devotion that defined Albert's legacy and the era's Catholic pomp. Created by Francquart, a Flemish architect and engraver, with intricate etching by master printmaker Cornelis Galle I, the work exemplifies early 17th-century Flemish printmaking. Etching allowed for fine, expressive lines to convey the procession's scale and hierarchy, while subtle hand coloring adds lifelike warmth to robes and banners. Measuring about 9½ × 14⅝ inches on the plate, these prints were designed for wide dissemination, preserving the event's splendor for posterity. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department, this piece highlights the cultural role of ceremonial art in Baroque Europe—transforming a funeral into a visual testament to faith, power, and artistry. Visitors will appreciate its meticulous detail, evoking the rhythmic tread of history itself.

About the Artist

Jacques Francquart|Cornelis Galle I (French|French) · 1577 |1577 –1651 |1651

French, Brussels 1577–1651 Brussels|French, Brussels 1577–1651 Brussels