Boëtius Adamsz. Bolswert

Dutch 🇳🇱 c. 1585 - 1633

Boëtius Adamsz. Bolswert, born around 1580 in Bolsward and died in late 1633, was a significant Flemish engraver of Frisian origin. He became known for his engravings that aimed to imitate the breadth and dynamic illumination of Peter Paul Rubens’ paintings. Bolswert was the elder brother and mentor of Schelte à Bolswert, another esteemed engraver. His works include reproductions of landscapes and religious themes, notably collaborating with Abraham Bloemaert and producing the popular devotional book “Pia Desideria” with Jesuit Father Herman Hugo.


Bolswert's collaboration with Abraham Bloemaert and his dense, diffuse engraving technique transformed the portrayal of landscapes in the genre, marking a significant contribution to the art of engraving in the early 17th century.