John Donne

Matthaus Merian I

National Gallery of Art

An engraved portrait of a man displayed within an ornate architectural setting. The portrait is an oval, showing only the subject's head and the upper part of his torso. The individual is positioned facing slightly to the left while looking directly at the viewer. He has a bearded face with prominent cheekbones and lips, and his hair is styled neatly, framing his forehead. The man wears a high pleated ruff collar and a dark robe or cloak over his shoulders. Surrounding the portrait are decorative elements, including cherubs or putti holding scrolls on either side, and a classical pediment with elaborate scrollwork above. Below the portrait, a plaque is inscribed with text. Flanking the plaque are niches containing sculptures of classical figures. The scene is framed by an architectural facade featuring pilasters and draped fabric motifs.