Papillons

until 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.

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.

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.

1643–1644

Endures the siege of Basing House with fellow royalist artists

With other royalist artists, notably Inigo Jones and the engraver William Faithorne, he stands the long siege of Basing House; some hundred plates by his hand are dated 1643 and 1644. The Civil War, despite his productivity, adversely affected his income.

1645

Captured by parliamentary forces, he escapes

Hollar joins the Royalist Regiment and is captured by parliamentary forces in 1645 during the siege of Basing House; after a short time he manages to escape.

1646

After Arundel’s death he works for authors and publishers

After the earl’s death in Padua in 1646, Hollar earns his living by working for various authors and publishers, which becomes his primary means of distribution.