“Stop to appreciate this mezzotint, a 17th-century printmaking innovation that allowed for incredibly rich, velvety tones, perfect for capturing the dramatic intensity of this executioner's face.”
A stark, almost menacing face emerges from the deep shadows in this mezzotint, capturing the "Head of Executioner." The figure's brow is furrowed, his eyes intense, conveying a grim determination. Mezzotint, a printing technique new to England around 1654, allowed for an unprecedented richness of tone and velvety blacks, which you can see in the dramatic contrast between the executioner's illuminated face and the dark background. This particular print is one of several copies of an original by Prince Rupert, who introduced mezzotint to England. It appeared in John Evelyn's Sculptura, a significant 17th-century treatise on printmaking, showcasing the innovative possibilities of this new artistic medium.
- Artist
- John Bornet
- Medium
- Mezzotint in black on ivory laid paper
- Location
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Dimensions
- Image/plate: 13 × 16.3 cm (5 1/8 × 6 7/16 in.); Sheet: 17.8 × 17.8 cm (7 1/16 × 7 1/16 in.)
- Collection
- Prints and Drawings
- Culture
- Ireland
- Credit line
- Elizabeth Hammond Stickney Collection
What to Notice
Five details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.
Observe the deep, velvety blacks characteristic of mezzotint.
Notice the texture of the executioner's hair, almost lost in shadow.
See the subtle highlights on his forehead and nose.
Look at the intense, focused expression in his eyes.
1 more detail is waiting.
See all 5 in Art Whisper →Stand in front of it and listen
The full narration walks you through Head of Executioner, from John Evelyn's Sculptura — the story behind it, the details most visitors miss, and why it matters. Free in the Art Whisper app.
John Bornet
1810–1910John Bornet, active across centuries, is known for works like the 1961 'Target' and the 1943 'Nightlife' at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Further Works by Bornet
Stoke-by-Nayland
1836 · Art Institute of Chicago
Renganeschi's Saturday Night
1912 · Art Institute of Chicago
Rip Van Winkle
1829 · Art Institute of Chicago
Nightlife
Art Institute of Chicago
Nude on a Table
Art Institute of Chicago
Saint John the Evangelist
Art Institute of Chicago
Castle Garden, New York
1851 · The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Bust of a Youth (Saint John the Baptist)
Art Institute of Chicago