Print with Three Grotesque Figures

ca. 1604–16

Not on view

This print is part of a series of at least 29 prints containing monstrous figures after designs by the Dutch artist Arendt van Bolten. They were almost certainly published in Paris, however, by Pierre I Firens who may also have been the engraver for the series. This print contains three grotesque figures. On the left is a figure with hoofed feet holding a spear and carrying a small sword. The figures in the middle and on the right both have oversized heads with organic strapwork elements. Neither has arms. The figure in the center appears to have wings, while the figure at right only has legs. The figures in the print derive from drawings in an album now kept at the British Museum in London. They relate to drawings no.143 and no.154.

Artwork Details

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

References

Title: Print with Three Grotesque Figures
Artist: After Arent van Bolten (Netherlandish, Zwolle 1573–before 1633 Leeuwarden)
Publisher: Pierre Firens I (Flemish, Antwerp 1580–1638 Paris)
Date: ca. 1604–16
Medium: Engraving [2nd state?]
Dimensions: Sheet: 5 7/8 × 8 in. (14.9 × 20.3 cm)
Classification: Prints
Credit Line: Harris Brisbane Dick Fund and The Elisha Whittelsey Collection, The Elisha Whittelsey Fund, by exchange, 1972
Object Number: 1972.543.5
Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints

More Artwork

By Arent van Bolten

By Pierre Firens I

In the same medium

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Print with Two Grotesque Figures

Arent van Bolten

Pierre Firens I

ca. 1604–16

Print with Grotesque Masks and Figures

Arent van Bolten

Pierre Firens I

ca. 1604–16

Print with Two Groups of Grotesque Figures

Arent van Bolten

Pierre Firens I

ca. 1604–16

Print with Three Grotesque Heads/Masks and Two Figures

Arent van Bolten

Pierre Firens I

ca. 1604–16

Print with Two Grotesque Figures, a Cat and Two Birds

Arent van Bolten

after 1616

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