Lot 601
JOHN SMITH (1652-1743), AFTER SIR GODFREY KNELLER (1646-1723)
THO[MAS] TOMPION, AUTOMATOPAEUS
Mezzotint, c.1697, a good impression of this famous print
Plate 34 x 24.7cm.; sheet 36 x 26.5cm.;
with Smith's portrait of Christopher Wren after Kneller, 1713, trimmed, sheet 34 x 25cm. (2)
* Smith's engraved portrait of the celebrated horologist is one of his most sought after subjects. In pure mezzotint, Smith translates Kneller's portrait into an image that is both dignified but informal. Tompion's skills with craftsmanship and innovation were so impressive that he abandoned his early training as a blacksmith and made a watch for King Charles II in 1675, just four years after his apprenticeship.
