Unknown gentleman, possibly Sir Thomas Overbury, previously known as William Shakespeare
1 portrait of William Shakespeare
Unknown gentleman, possibly Sir Thomas Overbury, previously known as William Shakespeare
by Richard Earlom, after Unknown Anglo-Netherlandish artist
mezzotint, (circa 1610)
5 3/4 in. x 4 1/2 in. (147 mm x 113 mm) paper size
Purchased with help from the Friends of the National Libraries and the Pilgrim Trust, 1966
Reference Collection
NPG D4208
Sittersback to top
- Sir Thomas Overbury (1581-1613), Poet and courtier. Sitter associated with 18 portraits.
- William Shakespeare (1564-1616), Dramatist and poet. Sitter associated with 107 portraits.
Artistsback to top
- Richard Earlom (1743-1822), Engraver. Artist or producer associated with 107 portraits, Sitter in 3 portraits.
- Unknown Anglo-Netherlandish artist, Artist. Artist or producer associated with 17 portraits.
Related worksback to top
- NPG D4207: Unknown gentleman, possibly Sir Thomas Overbury, previously known as William Shakespeare (from same plate)
- NPG D41649: Unknown gentleman, possibly Sir Thomas Overbury, previously known as William Shakespeare (based on same portrait)
Events of 1610back to top
Current affairs
Lady Arabella Stuart, cousin of James I, secretly marries William Seymour, Marquess of Hertford.James I's chaotic finances prompts Robert Cecil, Earl of Salisbury to submit to Parliament the great contract which proposed increases to the king's income for James's relinquishment of his feudal rights; however, it was not implemented.
Art and science
The Alchemist, by playwright Benjamin Jonson, is first performed by the acting troupe, the King's Men. Jonson also writes Prince Henry's Barriers, in honour of Henry, Prince of Wales.Stationers' Company agrees to give Thomas Bodley a copy of every book registered with them for his growing Bodleian Library.
International
Henry IV, King of France, is assassinated in Paris by Catholic fanatic, François Ravaillac. Henry, born a Calvinist, converted to Catholicism before ascending the throne to appease his future subjects. Although a popular king, much loved by his people, two earlier attempts had been made on his life.Comments back to top
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