Jacques de Gheyn the Younger

Jacobus (or Jacques) de Gheyn the Younger was apprenticed to Hendrick Goltzius in Haarlem. He set up his own studio in 1587 and enjoyed a successful career as a painter, draughtsman and engraver in Amsterdam, Leiden and, finally, The Hague. He maintained close ties with leading members of the ruling Dutch upper class and was patronised by Prince Maurice of Orange. Jacques de Gheyn’s Annunciation after an invention by Abraham Bloemaert is without doubt one of the most virtuoso and striking depictions of this theme to be found in Dutch art from the first half of the 17th century. Moreover, it is indisputably a printmaking masterpiece.

Readily apparent here is the absolute embodiment of Mannerist aesthetics. The scene is full of restless inner energy: Numerous putti romp about on the billowing, all but tangible clouds, while the archangel Gabriel almost forces his way into Mary’s intimate living room. Everyday attributes, such as a basket with sewing utensils, a little coal stove and a pair of wooden pantolettes, evoke an atmosphere of domesticity and security. The powerful, varied engraving style, which brilliantly reproduces the Mannerist exuberance of Bloemart’s stylistic idiom, gives the work a tremendous scenic energy.

The engraving was issued by Jacques Razet, a collector and publisher active in Amsterdam, with whom Bloemart enjoyed close personal ties between 1591 and 1593. The engraving bears a calligraphic inscription typical of the prints issued by Razet and is probably in the publisher’s own hand. A very fine, clear and harmonious impression with the address of R. de Baudous and before later editions by Isaac and Jan Houwens respectively. In impeccable condition.

EUR 15,000