Hollar, Václav or Wenzel [key], 1607–77, Bohemian etcher. He studied with Merian and after a period in Strasbourg and Cologne, he settled in England, working for Charles I. Despite distinguished patrons, ability, and industry, he lived and died in poverty. Much of his best work was done during his stay in Antwerp (1645–52). Hollar produced more than 2,500 plates of great variety, including portraits; animal studies; landscapes; and religious, still-life, and architectural subjects. His Theatrum Mulierum illustrates the costumes of his day. Other works include Views of London (before the great fire) and Edinburgh.
See study by A. M. Hind (1922, repr. 1973).
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