Anton Wierix II

Anton Wierix II was an engraver and printmaker active during the mid-to-late sixteenth century, with documented production spanning the period from 1552 through 1580. His artistic output focused entirely on the creation of prints, utilizing the medium to address both religious iconography and significant contemporary portraiture.

Wierix II’s documented works demonstrate proficiency across devotional and secular subject matter. Religious themes are represented by compositions such as S. Laurentius Martyr, S. Maria Magdalena, and S. Virgo Virginum. Simultaneously, he captured prominent political figures, evidenced by his engravings of European nobility, including Albert VII, Archduke of Austria and Isabella Clara Eugenie of Spain, Archduchess of Austria.

A significant representation of Anton Wierix II prints, totaling ten works, is preserved in major American institutions. These historical prints are held in the collections of both the Art Institute of Chicago and the National Gallery of Art, establishing his place within the history of European engraving. Because of their historical status, much of this material resides in the public domain, allowing for the widespread dissemination of high-quality prints and downloadable artwork derived from his original compositions. His contributions continue to be studied through these well-documented, museum-quality examples.