Koningen en koninginnen van Engeland

Three kings are depicted standing side-by-side, each holding a broadsword and a shield emblazoned with the three lions of the English royal arms. The central figure is viewed from behind, resting his foot upon a lion, while the others wear elaborate fur-trimmed robes and ceremonial headgear. The engraving showcases highly detailed sixteenth-century armor and fabric textures.

This work belongs to a series of historical portraits engraved on silver plates, reflecting the Renaissance preoccupation with dynastic lineage and the 'divine right' of rulers. Hendrick Goltzius was the leading figure of the Haarlem Mannerists, a group whose technical mastery of metalwork was often intellectually linked to alchemical transmutation and the perfection of nature.