Engraving after Justus Sustermans Period: printed circa 1842, 19th century Material: steel engraving on sturdy wove paper Dimensions: sheet approximately 350 × 536 mm; image approximately 170 × 128 mm Condition: excellent condition, with minimal age-related wear consistent with its age Collection Number: 387 Description of the Scene Portrait of Priest Pandolfo Ricasoli, depicted as a half-length figure within an interior setting. The sitter stands beside a table upon which an open book, writing implements, and a rosary have been carefully arranged. In his right hand he holds a crucifix, while directing a calm and composed gaze toward the viewer. Behind him, a crucifix bearing the figure of Christ is visible, partially concealed by a draped curtain. The composition combines the traditions of portraiture and devotional imagery. The attributes—the crucifix, the book, and the rosary—serve as explicit references to faith, learning, and spiritual authority. The figure’s restrained posture and absence of theatrical gestures enhance the contemplative character of the portrait, emphasizing inner conviction rather than outward display. Light falls evenly across the face and hands, drawing attention to the sitter’s expression and the textures of his clothing. The background is carefully constructed with architectural elements and an inscription that reinforces the intellectual and religious context of the portrayal. The overall effect conveys a sense of quiet dignity and restrained monumentality, characteristic of Baroque court portraiture. The engraving displays a particularly high level of technical accomplishment. The hatching is delicate and consistent, creating rich tonal modelling and smooth transitions between light and shadow. Its large format enhances the visibility of fine details and contributes to the print’s distinguished, museum-quality appearance. Original Artist Justus Sustermans was one of the most important portrait painters of the seventeenth century. Born in Antwerp and active for much of his career in Florence, he served as court painter to the Medici family. His portraits are admired for their psychological depth, compositional clarity, and dignified treatment of both aristocratic and ecclesiastical subjects. Sustermans successfully combined Flemish realism with the elegance of Italian court painting, establishing himself as one of the leading portraitists of Baroque Europe. Engraved by Martelli Faetino was a nineteenth-century engraver known for large-format portrait and historical engravings. His work is distinguished by disciplined line work, balanced tonal values, and meticulous attention to detail. In this engraving, his technical mastery complements the original composition, faithfully preserving both the psychological presence of the sitter and the refined qualities of the painted prototype. Provenance This engraving after Justus Sustermans was acquired in 2005 from the private collection of J. van Calker (Overijssel, the Netherlands). According to the available information, the collector obtained the work between 1994 and 1998 through Hessink’s Fine Art Auctioneers in Zwolle. Prior to that, the print formed part of an international private collection, although no further documented ownership history is known."