Portret van Thomas Cartwright

About this artwork

verzamelaarsmerk, verso, gestempeld: Lugt 2228

Art Historical Context

This striking portrait of Thomas Cartwright, created by Isaac Beckett between 1686 and 1715, offers a window into late seventeenth- and early eighteenth-century British society. Rendered on paper at an impressive scale of 341 by 252 centimeters, the work likely served to commemorate a figure of note during a time of political and religious transformation following the Restoration. Portraiture in this period functioned not only as personal mementos but also as tools for establishing status and legacy. The choice of paper as a medium reflects the growing popularity of prints and drawings, which...

About the Artist

Isaac Beckett · 1653–1719

Isaac Beckett (1653–1719) was an English mezzotint engraver who played a foundational role in establishing the art of mezzotint engraving in England. Along with Robert Williams, he was among the first native Englishmen to extensively practice this innovative printmaking technique, which had been developed in continental Europe. Born in Kent in 1653, Beckett's career spanned from 1681 to 1688, duri...