Pieter van der Heyden, “Autumn”, 1566

Pieter van der Heyden (also known as Pietro Martini, Petrus Merecinus, Petrus á Merica, and Peter Mericenys) (c. 1530–1584)

“Autumn”, 1566

Technical Details & Condition:

Engraving on laid paper, trimmed around the image border and backed with a support sheet. This is a lifetime impression—evidenced by the quality of line and the absence of any wear to the printing plate—from the series “The Four Seasons” (also known as “Compartimentorum quod vocant multiplex genus lepidissimis historumque fabellis ornatum”), published in Antwerp by Hieronymus Cock (c. 1517/18–1570). The Rijksmuseum describes this series as: “Depictions of the four seasons: autumn (Bacchus). One sheet from a series consisting of a title page and 15 of the 16 sheets with cartouches depicting biblical and mythological scenes in a frame of scrollwork and grotesques” (inv. no. RP-P-1952-428). It follows the design by Frans Floris (also known as Frans Floris de Vriendt, 1519/20–1570).

The impression is strong, well-printed, and nearly faultless. The sheet is in pristine condition, free of tears, holes, folds, or stains.

Dimensions:
• Sheet: 6.5 x 9.9 cm

References:
• The Rijksmuseum: https://id.rijksmuseum.nl/200455012
• Hollstein 120–136 (Dutch and Flemish etchings, engravings, and woodcuts c. 1450–1700)
• Riggs 101 (Hieronymus Cock, Printmaker and Publisher)
• Title page of the series held by the British Museum: https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/P_1950-0520-398

Price & Shipping:
AU$316 (approximately US$220.45 / €186.95 / £162.24), including worldwide express shipping. Import duties and taxes are the buyer’s responsibility.

If you are interested in acquiring this small, rare, and jewel-like engraving—a superb example of Northern Renaissance grotesque and strapwork ornamentation—please contact me at oz_jim@printsandprinciples.com. I am happy to provide a secure PayPal invoice for a seamless purchase.

This print has been sold