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The Martyrdom of Father John Forest, Burned by Order of Henry VIII in 1538
About the Item
Engraving of the burning at the stake of a Franciscan friar. Here is a detailed analysis, including a description and a translated version of the text:
The text at the bottom reads:
"P. IOANNES FOREST Minderbroeder ende biechtvader van Catharina Coninginne van Engelandt wort bij last van Henricus VIII met een laeckeen vyer verbrandt op den 23. Meij 1538."
"Father John Forest, a Franciscan friar and confessor to Queen Catherine of England, is burned by order of Henry VIII with a slow fire on May 23, 1538."
This engraving depicts Father John Forest, a Franciscan friar, tied to a stake and about to be burned at the stake. Father Forest is shown with his arms tied above his head, and his expression conveys a sense of resolve, suggesting that he is facing his fate with bravery and faith.
Two men in the foreground are setting up the firewood, preparing to light the flames. The detail with which the men are depicted suggests a sense of routine, perhaps hinting at the frequency of executions during this period of religious upheaval. In the background, a small figure is holding up a crucifix or a religious statue, emphasizing the religious element of the scene and the devotion of Father Forest even in the face of death. The setting sun and the dramatic cloud cover evoke a somber and emotional tone, consistent with Baroque artistic conventions.
Probable Maker and Source
This engraving likely dates to the late 17th century and could have been made by an artist like Romeyn de Hooghe, who was known for his politically and religiously charged prints. The engraving style and the subject of a Catholic martyr opposed to Henry VIII suggest that it was created as part of a series depicting the persecution of Catholic clergy during the English Reformation. Father John Forest was a known figure in the English Reformation, and his execution is well documented, as he was one of the notable martyrs who stood against Henry VIII's break with the Catholic Church.
Significance of the Engraving
This engraving is significant for several reasons:
1. **Historical Context**: It depicts the **martyrdom of Father John Forest**, who opposed Henry VIII's policies and remained loyal to the Catholic Church. He was executed for refusing to acknowledge the king as the supreme head of the Church of England.
2. **Religious Symbolism**: The emphasis on the friar's religious stance, coupled with the inclusion of the crucifix/statue, underscores the print's role as a **Catholic propaganda piece**. It evokes sympathy for those who faced persecution under Protestant reformers, highlighting their devotion even in the face of gruesome death.
3. **Artistic Detail**: The engraving's dramatic composition and the depiction of various figures involved in the execution contribute to its emotional impact. The Baroque style, characterized by movement, emotional tension, and dramatic lighting, is evident here in the interplay of light and shadow and the expressive poses of the figures.
Medium: Copper engraving on laid paper
Dimensions: Approximately 30 x 20 cm (image size)
Description: This evocative Baroque engraving portrays the martyrdom of Father John Forest, a Franciscan friar and confessor to Queen Catherine of England, who was burned at the stake on May 23, 1538, by order of Henry VIII. The scene shows Father Forest tied to a stake, with firewood being prepared around him. His expression conveys calmness and resolve, emphasizing his unwavering faith. The background features a figure holding a crucifix or religious statue, reinforcing the religious context of his death. Such engravings were used as Catholic propaganda during the Reformation, intended to evoke admiration for religious martyrs who resisted the Reformation. The detailed rendering of the figures and the dramatic atmosphere exemplify the emotional intensity of Baroque art.
Condition: Good, with age-related toning, minor creases, and intact margins.
Provenance: Likely part of a larger series or publication detailing the persecution of Catholic martyrs during the English Reformation.
Significance: An important historical and religious document highlighting the persecution of Catholic clergy who resisted Henry VIII's religious reforms. The engraving's detail, emotional depth, and dramatic composition make it a significant piece for understanding the religious conflicts of the Reformation era.
- Dimensions:Height: 11.42 in (29 cm)Width: 7.49 in (19 cm)Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)
- Materials and Techniques:Paper,Engraved
- Period:1680-1689
- Date of Manufacture:circa 1680
- Condition:Condition: Good, with some age-related toning, small margins, and minor creases, especially in the right border. Please study the images carefully.
- Seller Location:Langweer, NL
- Reference Number:Seller: BG-13894-51stDibs: LU3054342372652
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