Artwork
Shylock
Shylock is an ink print by the Romanticist artist John Hamilton Mortimer. It dates from 1776 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:upper center in plate: SHYLOCK.; lower center in plate: Merchant of Venice, Act IV, Scene 1st / If ev'ry ducat in six thousand ducats / were in six parts and ev'ry part a ducat-- / I would not draw them; I would have my Bond / Published 15 March, 1776, by J. MORTIMER Norfolk Street, STRAND
About this work
Overview
Shylock is an etching on wove paper created by British artist John Hamilton Mortimer in 1776. The work falls within Mortimer's dramatic and Italianate style, characteristic of his output during this period.
Subject & Meaning
The etching portrays a man of formal and elegant appearance, with a serious expression, clenched fist, and hand resting on his chest. These elements convey an overall mood of intensity and focused determination.
Technique & Style
Executed in etching, the piece showcases Mortimer's ability to evoke drama through line work and composition, reflecting influences reminiscent of Salvator Rosa.
History & Provenance
Created in 1776, during Mortimer's presidency of the Society of Artists (1774-1779), the etching is part of his broader oeuvre spanning figure, landscape, and war themes.
Context
Shylock is associated with the Romanticism movement, aligning with its emphasis on strong emotions and dramatic expression, as seen in the works of other contemporary Romantic artists.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
John Hamilton Mortimer (17 September 1740 – 4 February 1779) was a British figure and landscape painter and printmaker, known for romantic paintings set in Italy, works depicting conversations, and works drawn in the…
![Mucius Scaevola [recto], by John Hamilton Mortimer](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/john-hamilton-mortimer--mucius-scaevola-recto--0de678fa443f7962-w320.webp)
