Artwork Information

People maintained long-distance friendships via the post even in Hollar’s day. In 1642 Hollar wrote from London to Van der Borcht the Elder in Frankfurt, sending him a proof (unfinished state) of an etching. This unusual gesture suggests a close relationship with the old man despite the great distance between them. A well-known artist, Van der Borcht the Elder was included in Meyssens’ portrait series with Hollar’s etching made after a portrait painted by his son, Van der Borcht the Younger.