Artwork

The Great Age of Henry Jenkins

The Great Age of Henry Jenkins, by Thomas Worlidge, ink, 1752
The Great Age of Henry Jenkins, by Thomas Worlidge, ink, 1752

The Great Age of Henry Jenkins is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Thomas Worlidge. It dates from 1752 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Great Age of Henry Jenkins is a 1752 engraving by Thomas Worlidge, portraying an elderly man with remarkable longevity.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Henry Jenkins, is depicted with aged features—a wide-brimmed hat, long beard, and lined face—emphasizing his claimed extraordinary lifespan of 169 years, a record for the time.

Technique & Style

The engraving utilizes intricate, tiny lines to achieve detailed shading and texture, lending the portrait a nearly three-dimensional appearance.

History & Provenance

Created in 1752, the work is signed by Thomas Worlidge in the corner, authenticating the artist's hand.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Thomas Worlidge

Artist

Thomas Worlidge

Thomas Worlidge (1700–1766) was an artist, born in Peterborough.

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