Winter (from The Four Seasons)
Print, Engraving and Etching on paper • Wenceslaus Hollar (Bohemian, 1607–1677), published by Peter Stent
Style & Movement
Baroque / British 17th Century Printmaking
Medium & Technique
Etching and engraving; characterized by fine cross-hatching and stippling to create tonal depth and texture, particularly in the fur and fabric
Creation Period
circa 1641-1644
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 25 x 18 cm (plate size); Portrait format
Subject Description
A woman in a three-quarter view wearing seasonal winter attire, including a dark hood and a large fur muff. To the left is a fur stole on a table. The composition includes a Latin and English caption beneath: 'HYEMS' and 'WINTER' with accompanying verses describing the cold season.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; exhibits visible signs of chronological aging consistent with its antiquity
Estimated Market Value
$800 - $1,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$600 - $1,200 USD
Provenance History
Likely part of a dispersed collector's portfolio or a former library collection. No specific dealer labels are visible, but the framing suggests 20th-century housing.
Art Historical Significance
Hollar is considered one of the most important printmakers of the 17th century. This series of full-length 'Four Seasons' is famous for its intricate depiction of contemporary English fashion and its social-historical value in documenting Caroline garments.
Notable Features
Includes the distinct bi-lingual (Latin/English) text block at the bottom. The detail in the fur muff is a hallmark of Hollar's technical mastery, as he was renowned for his ability to render soft textures through the medium of etching.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing (brown spots), overall paper yellowing (toning), minor surface rippling (cockling), and potential moisture-related staining in the upper margins. Possible trimmed margins, which affects collector value.
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend de-acidification and cleaning by a professional paper conservator. Should be remounted using acid-free archival materials and UV-protective glazing to prevent further light damage.