Daniel Elzevir
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Daniel Elzevir
DANIEL ELZEVIR Dutch printer Date: 1626 - 1680
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14286111
© Mary Evans Picture Library
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative portrait captures Daniel Elzevir (1626-1680), a prominent Dutch printer of the 17th century. Elzevir, whose last name is sometimes spelled Elzevier or Elsevier, was born in Leiden, a city known for its vibrant intellectual and cultural scene. He began his printing career in the 1650s and quickly established himself as a leading publisher of scholarly works. Elzevir's contributions to the world of print were significant. He was one of the first printers to specialize in reprinting classic texts, making them accessible to a wider audience. His editions of the works of ancient authors, such as Plautus, Terence, and Seneca, were particularly influential. Elzevir also published important works by contemporary scholars, including the philosopher Baruch Spinoza and the historian Johannes Meursius. Despite his commercial success, Elzevir was not motivated solely by profit. He was deeply committed to the advancement of learning and the dissemination of knowledge. His printing house became a hub for scholars and intellectuals, and he was known for his willingness to take on controversial projects. This portrait, likely painted during Elzevir's later years, shows him in a thoughtful and introspective mood. He is depicted wearing a simple black coat and a white collar, the attire of a scholar or a man of letters. The background is austere, with a plain wall and a single window letting in a soft, diffused light. The overall effect is one of quiet dignity and intellectual seriousness, fitting for a man who dedicated his life to the pursuit of knowledge. Today, Daniel Elzevir is remembered as a pioneering figure in the history of printing. His legacy continues to inspire scholars and collectors, and his editions of classical texts remain valuable treasures in libraries and private collections around the world.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
