Artwork

David Jenkins, Welsh Magistrate and Royalist

David Jenkins, Welsh Magistrate and Royalist, by Unknown, ink, 1681
David Jenkins, Welsh Magistrate and Royalist, by Unknown, ink, 1681

David Jenkins, Welsh Magistrate and Royalist is an ink print by the Baroque artist Unknown. It dates from 1681 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This engraving portrays David Jenkins, a Welsh magistrate who supported the Royalist cause.

About this work

Overview

This engraving portrays David Jenkins, a Welsh magistrate who supported the Royalist cause. The formal, dignified depiction features Jenkins in a dark hat and puffy-sleeved white shirt, holding a rolled document against a dark, grid-patterned background.

Subject & Meaning

As a Royalist magistrate, Jenkins' portrayal may symbolize loyalty and authority. The rolled paper could represent legal or political documents, underscoring his profession and allegiance.

Technique & Style

The engraving exhibits Baroque characteristics through its detailed realism, dramatic contrast (dark background, white shirt), and the subject's expressive, potentially emotionally charged, demeanor.

History & Provenance

Limited information is provided about the engraving's creation or ownership history. Further research would be needed to establish its date, artist, or notable owners.

Context

Created in a period marked by political division, this portrait may have served to promote Jenkins' Royalist stance or commemorate his role during the tumultuous era of the English Civil War.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.