Meanwhile, in the life of Wenceslaus Hollar
The whole lifeuntil 1625
Decides to become an artist after his family’s ruin
After his family was financially ruined by the Sack of Prague in the Thirty Years’ War, the young Hollar, who had been destined for the legal profession, decided to become an artist.
1627
Apprenticed to Matthäus Merian in Frankfurt
In 1627 he is in Frankfurt, where he is apprenticed to the renowned engraver Matthäus Merian.
1630
Living in Strasbourg, Mainz and Koblenz
In 1630 he lives in Strasbourg, Mainz and Koblenz, where he portrays the towns, castles and landscapes of the Middle Rhine Valley.
1636
Meets the Earl of Arundel
The famous nobleman and art collector Thomas Howard, 21st Earl of Arundel, then on a diplomatic mission to the imperial court of Emperor Ferdinand II, takes notice of him. Hollar is employed as a draftsman.
1636
Travels with Arundel to Vienna and Prague
As a draftsman he accompanies the earl on a journey to Vienna and Prague, his native city.
1637
Moves to England with Arundel
In 1637 he goes with Arundel to England, where he remains in the earl’s household for many years.
![Bride, from "Dance of Death", Wenceslaus Hollar, [1651] late 18th century printing](https://images.metmuseum.org/CRDImages/dp/web-large/DP822840.jpg)
