Artwork
Samuel Pepys, Secretary to the Admiralty, Diarist
Samuel Pepys, Secretary to the Admiralty, Diarist is an ink print by the Baroque artist Robert White. It dates from 1674 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This engraving is a portrait of Samuel Pepys, a prominent figure in 17th-century England.
About this work
Overview
This engraving is a portrait of Samuel Pepys, a prominent figure in 17th-century England. Created by Robert White in 1674, it showcases White's skill as a portrait engraver.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Pepys, Secretary to the Admiralty and diarist, in a formal seated pose, conveying a sense of gravity and importance. The Latin inscriptions likely identify the subject and his title.
Technique & Style
The engraving features intricate lines and shading, giving the image a textured, three-dimensional appearance. White's use of decorative border elements, such as swirls and patterns, adds to the overall formal tone.
History & Provenance
Robert White, the engraver, was trained by David Loggan and became a notable figure in London's art scene, specializing in portrait engravings and pencil drawings on vellum.
Artist & collection
Artist
Robert White (1645 – 1703) was an English draughtsman and engraver. A Londoner, he was a pupil of David Loggan, and became a leading portrait engraver. White was celebrated for his original portraits, drawn in pencil on…
