79 Boetius Adams Bolswert after Abraham Bloemaert – Religious Engraving – Sancta Paula Romana / Saint Paula of Rome (1619)

This finely executed religious engraving portrays Saint Paula of Rome as a hermit, kneeling in contemplation before a crucifix, with a skull at her feet and divine light shining from above. The print is part of the Sacra Eremus Ascetriarum series, a collection of 25 depictions of female Christian ascetics. Bolswert’s interpretation captures the solemn mysticism and serene devotion central to Bloemaert’s original composition.

Boetius Adams Bolswert was a prominent Flemish engraver born in the late 16th century, known for his masterful and detailed engravings. He worked closely with Peter Paul Rubens, one of the most influential artists of the Baroque period, producing prints that disseminated Rubens' works to a wider audience. Bolswert's engravings are celebrated for their technical skill and artistic quality, contributing significantly to the spread of Baroque art throughout Europe. His works remain highly regarded in the history of printmaking for their precision and beauty.

Provenance: The Winfield Robbins print collection of Arlington, Massachusetts.

Artist or Maker:

Boetius Adams Bolswert

Dimensions:

15 cm x 10 cm

Medium:

Engraving

Date:

1619

Condition Report:

This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report