Artwork
Sir Christopher Wren
Sir Christopher Wren is an ink print by the Baroque artist John Smith. It dates from 1713 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
The collar of his shirt has buttons, and the edges of his coat are detailed with small lines.
This is a black-and-white portrait of a man in a big wig and fancy coat. His face is serious, with a neatly trimmed beard and mustache. The collar of his shirt has buttons, and the edges of his coat are detailed with small lines.
The print is signed and dated 1713 at the bottom, showing the man’s name in Latin. This was a common way to honor important people back then.
If you like this style, look up Baroque.
Overview
Sir Christopher Wren is a mezzotint print created by John Smith in 1713. The work is executed on laid paper and features a black-and-white portrait.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Sir Christopher Wren, an important figure, with a serious expression. He is shown wearing a large wig and ornate coat, with a neatly trimmed beard and mustache. The use of Latin to identify the subject was a common practice for honoring notable individuals.
Technique & Style
The print is a mezzotint, a technique that allows for detailed, tonal work. The image features intricate details, such as the buttons on the subject's shirt collar and the texture of his coat, achieved through the use of small lines and varying tones.
Artist & collection
