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Notes
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The picture has recently been identified as a Netherlandish man from the Van Nierop family although his exact identity remains a mystery. The identification was made on the basis of the coat of arms. The two carnations (or pinks) held by the sitter were a popular symbol of love during the sixteenth century. It is possible that this painting may have been created as a commemorative marriage portrait.Initially this picture was purchased by the National Portrait Gallery as a portrait of the English botanist John Gerard. This identification was based on a superficial resemblance to the engraving of Gerard by Williams Rogers (1598). However, neither the dates in the inscription nor the coat of arms match those of the renowned author of Great Herball, published in 1597.
Title
Unknown man of the Van Nierop family
Date
1587
Medium
oil on panel
Measurements
H 46 x W 36.4 cm
Accession number
1306
Acquisition method
Purchased, 1901. On long-term loan to Montacute House, Somerset
Work type
Painting