393 - G. VERTUE (1684–1756), Portrait of Abraham Cowley, 1667, etching

G. VERTUE (1684–1756), Portrait of Abraham Cowley, 1667, etching George Vertue (1684, London – 1756, ibid.): Portrait of Abraham Cowley. Portrait of the poet Abraham Cowley in an ornate frame, 1667, etching Technique: Etching and copper engraving on paper Inscription: Signed at the bottom of the printing plate: “P. Lely. p. | G: Vertue sculp.” Inscribed at the bottom of the printing plate: “ABRAHAMVS COWLEIVS” "Anglorum Pindarus Flaccus Maro Deliciae Decus Desiderium Aevi sui | Nobilissimo Dno Dno HENRICO HERO Baroni de COLERANE | Scientarum Artium, Patrono Dignissimo, hanc Tabulam D.D.D". Dated in the upper right: “Ob: 1667 AE:49.” Further inscription at the top: “PINDARICI FONTIS QUI | NON EXPALLUIT HAV STVS Hornt.” Date: 1667 Description: The painting depicts a portrait of Abraham Cowley, an English poet. He is portrayed in a classical pose, with his upper body turned slightly to the left and a serious expression on his face. His thick, curly hair falls over his shoulders. He is wearing a robe with a high collar, rendered in fine lines and shading. The background is dark, which emphasizes the figure and draws the viewer’s attention to his face. The portrait is set within an elaborately decorated frame adorned with laurel leaves and musical symbols. Keywords: Portrait; Abraham Cowley; Poet; Baroque; Engraving; Frame; Laurel; Classical; Symmetry; Light and shadow; Curls; Dress; Facial expression; Seriousness; Symbolism; Ornament; Text; Composition; Historical; Artistic; 17th century; Baroque; Portraits; United Kingdom; Size: Paper: 35.5 cm x 23.2 cm (14 x 9.1 in), Image: 33.9 cm x 22.5 cm (13.3 x 8.9 in) Condition: In poor condition. The paper shows slight age-related toning, but this does not impair the visual quality of the image. There are minimal, light stains in places. The print is slightly trimmed. It has a short tear and a somewhat longer tear in the center-left margin.