Who painted Sir Thomas More?

Sir Thomas More was painted by Unknown 19th Century in 1850.

Where can I see Sir Thomas More?

Sir Thomas More is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Sir Thomas More?

Sir Thomas More is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Sir Thomas More

Unknown 19th Century , 1850

Sir Thomas More is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Unknown 19th Century. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. The work is a black‑and‑white engraving depicting a solemn figure dressed in a fur‑trimmed robe and a dark hat.

About this work

Overview

The work is a black‑and‑white engraving depicting a solemn figure dressed in a fur‑trimmed robe and a dark hat. He holds a small key in his right hand while his left hand rests on his chest. The portrait is set against an unadorned background, framed by ornate scrollwork that suggests a space for additional text or imagery beneath the figure.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is identified as Sir Thomas More, the English statesman and humanist. The key he grasps may allude to his role as a guardian of conscience or to the moral responsibilities he embraced, themes commonly associated with More’s reputation for integrity and martyrdom.

Technique & Style

Executed in the engraving medium, the image relies on finely incised lines to render tonal variation and texture. Cross‑hatching creates the impression of the plush fur lining, the sheen of the hat, and the subtle modelling of the face, while the crisp line work defines the decorative frame surrounding the portrait.

Context

Engravings of notable individuals were a common means of disseminating their likenesses in the early modern period, allowing a broader audience to recognize and contemplate their virtues. This portrait fits within that tradition, presenting More in a dignified, contemplative pose that emphasizes his intellectual and moral stature.