William Wycherley (1640-1715), Playwright

Engraver John Smyth I

After Peter Lely , Dutch, 1618-1680

Title

Date1703

MediumMezzotint

Dimensions

Sheet: 28.1 x 20.8 cm

Plate: 26.5 x 19.4 cm

Credit LinePresented, Brian Lalor Print Collection, 2014

Object numberNGI.2014.43

DescriptionJohn Smith produced over three hundred mezzotint portraits during his lifetime. Due to the pre-eminence of the mezzotint in England and the popularity of Smith’s prints abroad, the mezzotint was widely known as la manière anglaise or English method. The richness and depth of tone characteristic of the mezzotint gives the prints an almost photographic quality, which was particularly favoured for capturing a likeness.
Inscriptionlower centre: W. Wycherley/AEatatis Suae. 28 . [AE and ae in ligature]/—Quantum mutates ab illo. Virg
lower left: P. Lely Eques pinx.
lower right: I. Smith fec. 1703