Antique Master Print-SAINT BONIFACE-ARCHBISHOP-MARTYR-DOKKUM-SWORD-Wierix-c.1650

This print shows a view on a portrait of Boniface (ca. 672–754), archbishop and martyr. He is depicted in episcopal regalia, including mitre and staff. Characteristic of his iconography is the book pierced with a sword, which he holds in his left hand. This refers to his martyrdom at Dokkum, where, according to tradition, he held a gospel book above his head to protect himself from the swords of his attackers. At the bottom of the engraving is a Latin inscription identifying him as Saint Boniface, Archbishop and Martyr. The text also mentions his anniversaries in June and July.

Made by Hieronymus Wierix after Maerten de Vos.

Medium: Engraving on hand laid (vergé) paper.

Sheet size: 16 x 23 cm (6.3 x 9.06 inch). Image size: 13 x 17.5 cm. (5.12 x 6.89 inch).

Condition: good, given age. Brownish stains on reverse. Creases. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully.

PORTRAIT-SAINT BONIFACE-ARCHBISHOP-MARTYR-DOKKUM-SWORD | RBOS-A11-11

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

This attractive print was published by Peter Firens (1604-1671) French publisher/printer; printmaker. Ca 1650.

Biography engraver: Hieronymus Wierix (1553-1619), one of the three brothers, all engravers. Active in Antwerp.

Biography artist: Maarten de Vos (1532-1603), Antwerp-born painter and designer, prolific draftsman for religious series, whose work influenced a generation of Northern printmakers.