Gilbert Burnet, Bishop of Salisbury
Print; mezzotint on paper • John Smith (English, 1652–1743), after a portrait by John Riley (English, 1646–1691). The inscription confirms it was sold by J. Smith at the Lyon & Crown in Russell Street.
Style & Movement
Baroque (British Portraiture)
Medium & Technique
Mezzotint; produced by roughening a copper plate with a rocker to create deep tones, then smoothing areas with a burnisher to create highlights.
Creation Period
Late 17th or early 18th century (circa 1690-1710)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 35 x 25 cm (Plate size); vertical portrait format.
Subject Description
A portrait of Gilbert Burnet (1643–1715), Bishop of Salisbury (Sarum) and Chancellor of the Order of the Garter. He wears clerical robes and the distinctive Lesser George medal of the Order of the Garter on a chain. The composition is a bust-length portrait contained within an oval frame.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. The image remains strong, but there is visible foxing and overall paper discoloration (toning) consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$300 - $600 USD
Auction Estimate
$200 - $400 USD
Provenance History
Likely part of a private collection of historical English prints. The inscription 'Sold by J. Smith at the Lyon & Crown in Russell Street Covent Garden' indicates its origin as a commercially available print from the leading mezzotinter of the era.
Art Historical Significance
Gilbert Burnet was a highly influential theologian and historian during the William and Mary era. This mezzotint represents the peak of the 'Golden Age' of English mezzotint, demonstrating John Smith's mastery of the medium which allowed for a painterly quality in printmaking.
Notable Features
Includes a distinctive title plate with calligraphic text: 'The Right Reverend Father in God Gilbert Lord Bishop of Sarum & Chancellor of y' most Noble Order of y' Garter'. Features the publisher's address which helps date the state of the print.
Condition Issues
Visible foxing (brown spots due to fungal growth or iron oxidation), paper yellowing due to light exposure and acid in the pulp, and some potential mounting stains around the edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Acid-free mounting and matting; UV-filtering glass; consultation with a paper conservator to evaluate if light bleaching or de-acidification is necessary; keep in a climate-controlled environment.