Title Page for Sylva Sylvarum, Francis Bacon

1629

Thomas Cecil

Associated Names
Thomas Cecil

Artist, English, active 1627/1635

This is a drawing of a globe suspended between two pillars with ornamental details, with the heavens above. Two winged cherubic heads are depicted above, surrounded by clouds and rays of light emanating from a central point where Hebrew text is placed. The lower half of the image features the drawing of a large globe labeled "Mundus Intellectualis" resting on a scroll, which bears the text "SYLVA SYLVARUM or A NATURAL HISTORY." The surrounding scene is embellished with clouds and celestial elements. A banner near the bottom contains information about the work's authorship and publication, dated 1629. The composition blends elements of classical architecture and celestial representation, with detailed etching that emphasizes texture and contrast.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    plate: 21.8 × 14.9 cm (8 9/16 × 5 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1951.11.343


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

W. B. Dukes [d. 1942], London, (L.2757a); (Sotheby, London, sale July 8, 1942, no. 112); Lessing J. Rosenwald [1891 - 1979], Philadelphia, (L.1932d); gift to NGA, 1951.

Associated Names

Wikidata ID

Q65367373

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