Artwork
Grinling Gibbons, Wood Carver
Grinling Gibbons, Wood Carver is an ink print by the Baroque artist John Smith. It dates from 1697 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Grinling Gibbons, Wood Carver is a mezzotint print created in 1697 by John Smith, based on a painting by G. F. Röttier.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts Grinling Gibbons, a renowned wood carver, pointing to a carved bust on a table, highlighting his profession.
Technique & Style
The mezzotint technique allows for rich tonal variations, evident in the subject's dark coat and the dramatic lighting on his face, characteristic of the Baroque style.
History & Provenance
The print is signed by the painter, G. F. Röttier, and the engraver, John Smith, with the subject's name, 'M. Grinlin Gibbons', inscribed below.
Artist & collection
