Artwork

Francis Bacon

Francis Bacon, by Thomas Cross, ink, 1653
Francis Bacon, by Thomas Cross, ink, 1653

Francis Bacon is an ink print by the Baroque artist Thomas Cross. It dates from 1653 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This engraving is a portrait of Francis Bacon, created by Thomas Cross in 1653. It is a black-and-white print that showcases the subject in ornate attire.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Bacon wearing old-fashioned clothing, including a large hat and a heavy coat with intricate patterns, holding a small book or paper. The accompanying text hails him as 'BACON, His Age’s Pride and Britann’s Glory,' indicating his significance.

Technique & Style

The print is an example of engraving, a technique involving cutting lines into metal to create detailed images. The style is characterized by the use of lines to render the subject's clothing and the surrounding objects, including a coat of arms and Latin words in the background.

Artist & collection

Artist

Thomas Cross

Thomas Cross (1644–1682) was an artist.

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