| My dissertation examines the career of the Flemish artist, Aegidius Sadeler, who worked in Germany, Italy, and in Prague as court engraver to the Hapsburg emperors Rudolf II, Matthias and Ferdinand II. Sadeler was regarded by Sandrart, Baldinucci and other writers as one of the finest engravers of his time and as a major influence on printmakers of the 17th century.;Sadeler's reputation lies chiefly in his role in the evolution of the reproductive engraving, a genre of print which originated during the 16th century and increased in popularity with the developing interest in art history. However, the dissertation also considers Sadeler's original prints, as well as his less familiar activity as a draftsman and painter, and brings together a group of securely attributed drawings.;While the introductory chapter outlines the state of the literature, the following sections give a revised account of Sadeler's career, and discuss his large oeuvre with regard to stylistic development and subject matter. Chapter 2 deals with the background and religion of the Sadeler family, their emigration to Germany, and Aegidius's activity at the Munich court. Chapter 3 is concerned with the itineraries of Sadeler's two trips to Italy as well as his second stay in Munich. Chapter 4 deals with Sadeler's richest period of activity as one of the distinguished artists brought together by Emperor Rudolf II, while Chapter 5 considers the little-known period in Prague from 1612 to 1629, during which Sadeler remained a powerful artistic influence in Northern Europe. Chapter 6 surveys Sadeler's assistants and pupils, with suggestions regarding their contributions to his work.;The final chapter analyzes Sadeler's prints in relation to early writings on engraving and artistic theory. Particular attention is given the impact of the theory of imitation on his engraving technique, as well as the early regard for reproductive engraving as a valuable medium of instruction by artists and art historians. The dialogue between writings on art and Sadeler's developing engraving style is central to my arguments regarding this artist's importance. |
