Portret van Maria Theresia, Rooms-Duits keizerin

About this artwork

height 459 mm x width 308 mm

Art Historical Context

This engraving by Dutch artist Pieter van Bleeck captures Maria Theresa, the formidable Habsburg ruler who became Holy Roman Empress in 1745. Created in 1742, just two years after her contested accession to the throne triggered the War of the Austrian Succession, the portrait served as an important tool of political imagery. At nearly 46 by 31 centimeters, its substantial size suggests it was intended for prominent display rather than a small book illustration. Engraving was a vital medium in the eighteenth century for distributing royal likenesses across Europe. Unlike unique paintings, prin...

About the Artist

Pieter van Bleeck · 1700–1764

Probably born in the Hague. He was a painter of portraits and is particularly remembered for his portraits of actors in their roles. He was also an engraver and made engravings after works by Murillo, van Dyck, Rembrandt, Lely, and others. Comment on works: Portraits; theatrical scenes