Portret van keizer Titus

About this artwork

collector's mark: Lugt 2166

Art Historical Context

Behold the *Portret van keizer Titus*Portrait of Emperor Titus), a delicate engraving by Johann Friedrich Leonard, created sometime between 1643 and 1680. Measuring just 167mm high by 125mm wide, intimate print captures the stern yet noble visage of the Roman emperor Titus who ruled from 79 to 81 CE. Titus, forever linked to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the grand inauguration of the Colosseum was a pivotal figure in ancient history, embodying imperial power and tragedy. As an engraving, the work showcases the meticulous technique of the medium: fine lines incised into a metal plate, inked, and pressed onto paper to yield precise, reproducible images. Popular in the 17th century, engravings like this allowed classical antiquity to be disseminated widely among scholars and collectors, bridging Renaissance fascination with Rome and Baroque artistry. Leonard's rendition likely draws from ancient busts or medals, preserving Titus's likeness for modern eyes. Adorned with the collector's mark Lugt 2166—evidence of its esteemed provenance—this print invites us to ponder how 17th-century Europeans revered Roman emperors, blending historical reverence with technical mastery in a format both portable and profound.

About the Artist

Johann Friedrich Leonard · 1630–1690

Johann Friedrich Leonhard (also spelled Leonard or Leonart, 1633–1680/87) was a German copperplate engraver and early practitioner of mezzotint who worked during the Baroque period, creating portraits and reproductive engravings after works by other artists. Though documentation of his life remains limited, his surviving works demonstrate mastery of engraving techniques and participation in the ne...