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Samuel Pepys (1633-1703), 1689 (oil on canvas)
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Samuel Pepys (1633-1703), 1689 (oil on canvas)
7340133 Samuel Pepys (1633-1703), 1689 (oil on canvas) by Kneller, Godfrey (1646-1723); 53.1x46.1 cm; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: Creator: Sir Godfrey Kneller
A half-length portrait to right in a feigned oval. He wears a brown silk coat and brown full-bottomed wig. Pepys's fame derives both from the private diary he kept from 1660 to 1669, which gives a unique insight into both his times and his character, and from his importance as a Naval administrator over a much longer period from 1660, initially under the patronage of his cousin, Edward Montagu, first Earl of Sandwich. When Sandwich was killed at the Battle of Solebay in 1672, James, Duke of York became his patron, notwithstanding the Duke's exclusion from office as Lord High Admiral in the following year. Pepys also won the confidence of James's elder brother, Charles II.
He was initially Clerk of the Acts (Secretary of the Navy Board) and, from 1686 to 1688, Secretary of the Admiralty, where he created a modern state department out of an archaic office. He left the Admiralty in February 1689 after his patron - now James II - was driven into exile by the 'Glorious Revolution' of 1688 that put William and Mary (James's daughter) on the throne. The portrait was thus painted by Kneller during a turbulent year for Pepys, and is inscribed and dated on the back 'Mr Pepes G.Kneller fecit 1689'. It is one of three portaits, painted for him at that time, the others being of his former secretary and faithful friend William Hewer (BHC2765), with whom he lived in retirement at Clapham until his death, and John Jackson, his nephew. The pictures remained in Pepys's family until Pepys and Hewer purchased for the Museum by Sir James Caird in 1931; the location of Jackson is unknown (it was sold to an R. H. Muir). This one was first engraved in a small format by Robert White in 1690 (see PAD2688). Another version was engraved by T. Bragg in 1827 as frontispiece for volume 1 of the octavo five-volume (second) edition of Pepys's diary of 1828, and subsequent re-issues (see PAI9572).); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Media ID 38177558
© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images
17th Century Fashion Godfrey Kneller Nobles Oil (painting) Oil On Wood
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This stunning portrait of Samuel Pepys, painted by Sir Godfrey Kneller in 1689, captures the essence of a man whose legacy continues to fascinate and inspire. Known for his famous private diary that provides a unique glimpse into 17th century England, Pepys was not only a chronicler of his times but also an influential Naval administrator.
In this painting, Pepys is depicted in a brown silk coat and full-bottomed wig, exuding an air of authority and intelligence. His role as Clerk of the Acts and later Secretary of the Admiralty showcased his organizational skills and dedication to modernizing the Navy during a period of great change.
The year 1689 marked a turbulent time for Pepys, as he left his position at the Admiralty following the 'Glorious Revolution' that saw William and Mary ascend to the throne. This portrait by Kneller serves as a poignant reminder of Pepys's resilience and adaptability in navigating political upheavals.
Acquired by Sir James Caird in 1931, this painting has been preserved as part of Pepys's lasting legacy. It stands as a testament to his enduring influence on naval history and administrative reform. As we gaze upon this image, we are transported back in time to witness the strength and determination embodied by Samuel Pepys himself.
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