335 - Drawing by Hendrick Goltzius (German, 1558–1617)

Drawing by Hendrick Goltzius (German, 1558–1617) Hendrick Goltzius (Goltz; January or February 1558 – January 1, 1617) was a German-born Dutch printmaker, draftsman, and painter. He has been described as the leading Dutch engraver of the early Baroque period, or Northern Mannerism, praised for his sophisticated technique, technical mastery, and the “exuberance” of his compositions. According to A. Hyatt Mayor, Goltzius “was the last professional engraver who drew with the authority of a good painter and the last who invented many pictures for others to copy.” In the middle of his life, he also began to produce paintings. The penwork, wash, and highlights are all in good condition. Minor stains, apparently from previous hinges, are present in the upper right and lower left corners. The drawing appears to have been folded in half at some point. The lower left corner is detached. The reverse side of the sheet is fairly extensively stained, presumably from adhesive left over from a previous backing, which has now been removed. It also bears inscriptions referring to the name H. Goltzius and the title “La Chariti,” as well as a collector’s stamp with the initials V.E., corresponding to no. L.2525 in Frits Lugt’s catalog of collectors’ marks, MAYER Vincent. These stains have not penetrated to the front, which retains a relatively fresh appearance and the yellowed tone of the paper. Size of the drawing: 21x14 cm. Size of the frame: 39x32 cm. From the collection of Vincent Mayer.