Artwork

Francis Hawkins

Francis Hawkins, by John Payne, ink, 1627
Francis Hawkins, by John Payne, ink, 1627

Francis Hawkins is an ink print by the Baroque artist John Payne. It dates from 1627 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Francis Hawkins is a 1627 engraving by John Payne, depicting a young boy in a formal portrait.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait shows a curly-haired boy with a ruffled collar and dark coat, accompanied by text describing him as a 'child whose wit outstrips his years', suggesting he was precocious. The inscription includes his name and age.

Technique & Style

Payne's engraving employs fine lines and shading to capture the boy's facial features, exemplifying the refined printmaking techniques of early 17th-century England.

History & Provenance

Created during the reign of Charles I, this work represents the early development of native-born English engraving, supported by royal patronage.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Payne

Artist

John Payne

John Payne (1607–1647) was an English engraver, who was one of the earliest exponents of the art of engraving in England. His best work was the finest produced by a native-born engraver working during the reign of Charles I.

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