George Vertue, 1684–1756, Britishafter unknown artist
Title:
William Shakespeare
Date:
1719
Materials & Techniques:
Engraving on medium, slightly textured, cream laid paper
Dimensions:
Mount: 24 × 17 1/4 inches (61 × 43.8 cm)
Inscription(s)/Marks/Lettering:
Lettered, lower left: "Geo. Vertue Londini"; lettered, lower center: "Shakespeare! such Thoughts inimitable shine. | Drest in they Words, thy Fancy seems Divine. | Tis Natures Mirrour where she views each Grace. | And all the various Features of her Face."; lettered, lower left: "Done from the Original now in the Possession of Robert Keck of the Inner Temple Esqr."; lettered, lower right: "Sold by G. Vertue in Brownlow Street Drury lane."; lettered, lower right: "Sculplsit 1719"; lettered, upper center: "WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE Ob An Dom 1616 | Aetat 53"
Credit Line:
Yale Center for British Art, Paul Mellon Collection