Artwork
William Petyt, Keeper of the Records in the Tower
William Petyt, Keeper of the Records in the Tower is an ink print by the Baroque artist Robert White. It dates from 1698 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1698 engraving by Robert White portrays William Petyt, Keeper of the Records in the Tower, in a formal, chest-up pose, set against a dark background that emphasizes his dignified demeanor.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, William Petyt, is depicted in a manner reflecting his official role, conveying an air of seriousness and importance through his direct gaze, white collar, and dark, buttoned jacket.
Technique & Style
Executed in a style developed under David Loggan, the engraving showcases White's skill in finely detailed portrait engravings, based on an original pencil drawing on vellum.
History & Provenance
Created in 1698, the engraving is part of the late 17th-century print portraiture tradition, focusing on official and scholarly figures. Robert White, a London-based English draughtsman and engraver, died in 1703.
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…
