Figures & Portraits · 19th century
€ 110
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
given age. Paper slightly browned with a number of creases, especially the corners. Light foxing. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully.
Charles Duke is depicted in a relaxed pose, sitting with one arm resting on the arm of the chair and the other holding what appears to be a snuff box, a common accessory of the period among the upper class. His attire is indicative of a person of high social standing during this era.
This engraving was likely used to honor the Duke's contributions to the society mentioned and might have been distributed among its members or sold to admirers of the Duke and supporters of the society's causes.
The text on the image provides a title and description of the person depicted in the portrait. It reads:
"His Grace
CHARLES DUKE OF NORFOLK, K.F.R.A.S.
President of the Society for
the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures & Commerce,
From the original Picture by W. Cross,
in the possession of P. F. Taylor, Esq.
Engraved by Thomas Williamson."
This text indicates that the subject of the portrait is Charles Howard, likely the 11th Duke of Norfolk, given the historical period the engraving suggests. The title "K.F.R.A.S." could refer to his being a Knight of some order (potentially the Order of the Garter, which would usually be indicated as KG, but may vary here) and a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society or similar scientific society (F.R.A.S.). His role as the president of a society for the encouragement of arts, manufactures, and commerce shows his patronage or involvement in promoting industrial and artistic advancement in society.
The portrait is based on an original picture by W. Cross, held by someone named P. F. Taylor, Esq. Thomas Williamson is credited with engraving this portrait, which means he transferred the original artwork into this print form.
