Portrait of Frans Francken, from the Icones Principum Virorum
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Milton Einstein
Accession Number
1959-49-13
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This elegant print, *Portrait of Frans Francken from the Icones Princip Virorum*, captures the likeness of the Flemish painter Frans Francken envisioned by the masterful Anthony van Dyck (1599–1641). Though dated 1645–1650—after van Dyck's death—this work belongs to his renowned *Iconography* series, collection of engraved portraits celebrating Europe's intellectual and artistic elite. Produced posthumously by skilled engravers working from van Dyck's original drawings and paintings, it exemplifies the Baroque master's gift for conveying dignity, character, and subtle psychological depth in po...