Richard II

1775

John Hamilton Mortimer

Associated Names
John Hamilton Mortimer

Artist, British, 1740 - 1779

The image shows a bust-length depiction of a person in a three-quarter view to the left. The individual is in a regal or authoritative pose, with their head slightly turned. Their features are detailed, with strong facial features, a prominent nose and lips, and a beard. They are wearing an elaborate turban or headdress with a central jewel or brooch, suggesting nobility. Their clothing is richly embroidered, and they have large earrings. Behind them, another figure appears to be floating, holding an object above the main figure's head. The background has a textured, stippled pattern in an oval frame. The text "RICHARD, II" is inscribed above the figure, identifying them.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.
Not on view See artworks now on view

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching on wove paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Thomas Vogler in memory of his brother Donald J. Vogler

  • Dimensions

    plate: 40.3 × 33.6 cm (15 7/8 × 13 1/4 in.)
    sheet: 57.1 × 42.7 cm (22 1/2 × 16 13/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2017.53.72

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Sunderland 1986, no. 96.2

  • Series Title

    Twelve Characters from Shakepeare

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(William Weston Gallery, London, 24 June 1987); Donald Vogler, Portland, OR; gift to NGA, 2017.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1986

  • Sunderland, John. "John Hamilton Mortimer: His Life and Works," Walpole Society 52 (1986): no. 96.2

Inscriptions

upper center in plate: RICHARD II.d; lower center in plate: For within the hollow crown / That rounds the mortal temples of a King / Keeps Death his Court... / ...Comes at last & with a little fun / Bores thro' his castle walls & farewell King / Published May 20 1775 by MORTIMER, Norfolk Street, STRAND ; Richard II. Act 3 Scene 2.

Wikidata ID

Q77259475

You may be interested in

Loading Results