Sir Thomas More (1478-1535)

Code: 10349

Dimensions:

Sir Thomas More (1478-1535)
Jacobus Houbraken (1698-1780)
after Hans Holbein the Younger (1497/98-1543)
Line engraving, published by John & Paul Knapton, 1741
On paper
Size: 14 3/4 in. x 9 1/4 in. (376 mm x 234 mm) Platemark

Lettered in lower margin: "Holbein pinxit", "J. Houbraken sculps. Amst. 1740", "In the Possession of Sr. Rowland Winn Bart." "Impensis I.&P. Knapton Londini 1741."

Portrait of Sir Thomas More, bust directed to left, wearing a cap and fur-trimmed coat with the Tudor Collar of Esses chain of office; in an oval architectural frame. The mace of the House of Commons (a reference to his role as Speaker of the House of Commons) and the Burse or Purse of the Great Seal of the Realm of England (a reference to his being Lord High Chancellor) beneath. Along with an axe (a reference to his execution). Houbraken's image is based on Holbein's 1527 portrait of More which is now in the Frick Collection, New York. 

From the series known as "The Heads of Illustrious Persons of Great Britain, Engraved by Mr Houbraken and by Mr Vertue", (London, 1743-1752).

See BM 1981,U.2045 and NPG D39003