Johann Jakob Frey the Elder, “St Romuald”, c. 1720, after Andrea Sacchi

Johann Jakob Frey the Elder (1681–1752)— Swiss-born printmaker active in Rome

“St Romuald”, circa 1720

Background insights:

The portrayed scene features St Romuald of Ravenna (circa 950–1027)—founder of the Camaldolese monastic order—seated in a white habit beneath a tree at the right, recounting his vision to five fellow monks with an upward gesture. His hand points toward the background scene of monks ascending a ladder to heaven.

The print is based on a painting, now in the Pinacoteca Vaticana, by the Roman Baroque painter Andrea Sacchi (circa 1599–1661). It bears an in-plate dedication from Frey to (in translation) “the most Reverend Father Dom Clement Reginald Archibuserius, the most vigilant Abbot General of the entire Camaldolese Order.”

Interestingly, G.K. Nagler (1837) in his catalogue of Frey’s graphic works offers the following comment about this print (in translation): “This was Frey’s favourite piece, known as ‘The White Monk.’” Nagler also notes that: “Jakob Frey drew with greater nobility and accuracy than the majority of his compatriots and possessed great painterly qualities; he etched skilfully in a disciplined style—which he reinforced with burin work—and was the most distinguished engraver … of his time.”

Technical Details & Condition:

Engraving and etching on heavy laid paper with a flattened centrefold.

The impression is strong and crisp, revealing no wear to the printing plate. Aside from minor tears in the upper margin and minor surface dustiness, the sheet remains in good condition for its large size and age with no holes or significant stains.

Dimensions:

• Sheet: 68.7 x 43.9 cm
• Platemark: 64.8 x 35.4 cm
• Image borderline: 58.4 x 33.7 cm

In-Plate Lettering (below the image):

• Right: “Andreas Sacchus pinx.”
• Centre: “Rev^mo: Pri D. Clementi Reginaldo Archibuserio. / totius Camaldulensis Ordinis Abbati Gererali vigilantifsimo. / obsequentif: ^mi animi monumentum D. D. D.  Jac: Freÿ.”
• Right: “I: Freÿ del: et Sculp: Ro[m]æ”

References:

• Nagler 486 (G.K. Nagler, “Neues allgemeines Künstler-Lexicon,” vol. 4, 1837, p. 486)
• The British Museum: Museum Number 1850,0823.8 — https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/P_1850-0823-8

Price & Shipping:

AU$296 (approximately US$207.97 / €182.41 / £156.92, subject to daily exchange rates). Price includes worldwide express shipping. Please note that destination import duties and local taxes remain the sole responsibility of the buyer.

If you’re interested in acquiring this large in finely executed etching with engraving, please contact me directly at oz_jim@printsandprinciples.com. I will gladly provide a secure PayPal invoice for a seamless purchase.