Sir John Vanbrugh
8 of 11 portraits of Sir John Vanbrugh
© National Portrait Gallery, London
Sir John Vanbrugh
by Thomas Chambers (Chambars), after Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt
line engraving, published 1762
6 3/4 in. x 5 1/4 in. (172 mm x 132 mm) plate size; 11 3/4 in. x 9 in. (300 mm x 230 mm) paper size
Reference Collection
NPG D7524
Artistsback to top
- Thomas Chambers (Chambars) (circa 1724-1789). Artist or producer associated with 51 portraits.
- Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt (1646-1723), Portrait painter. Artist or producer associated with 1689 portraits, Sitter associated with 30 portraits.
This portraitback to top
In this print, after a portrait by Godfrey Kneller, Vanbrugh holds a pair of compasses that hint at his skill as an architect. He wears the medal of an officer of the College of Arms, where coats of arms are recorded. This position confirmed Vanbrugh's status as a gentleman.
Events of 1762back to top
Current affairs
Birth of George, Prince of Wales (later George IV) on 12 August.Thomas Pelham-Holles, 1st Duke of Newcastle resigns as Prime Minister over foreign policy and is succeeded by the Tory John Stuart, 3rd Earl of Bute. Many of Newcastle's followers are dismissed over the following months in what becomes popularly known as the 'Massacre of the Pelhamite Innocents'.
'Cock Lane ghost' appears in Smithfield, London.
Art and science
James MacPherson publishes Fingal, an Ancient Epic Poem, said to be the work of the third century Scottish bard Ossian, initiating the greatest literary hoax of the century.Sign-Painters Exhibition is organised in London by Bonnell Thornton to ridicule recently established public art exhibitions.
Artist William Hogarth publishes The Times Plate 1; an anti-war satire.
International
Philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau publishes his major works The Social Contract and Emile; influential treatises on society and education. Peter III of Russia is reputedly assassinated as a result of a conspiracy led by his wife Catherine, who succeeds him to the throne as Catherine II (later the Great).Seven Years' War: The British commander John Manners Marquess of Granby distinguishes himself at the Battle of Manila.
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