Samuel Clarke
(1675-1729), MetaphysicianLater Stuart Portraits Catalogue Entry
Sitter in 24 portraits
Born to lowly parents in Norfolk, Clarke was educated at Cambridge where he soon became known for his encyclopaedic knowledge. One of the first men to fully understand Newton's principals, he helped spread Newton's doctrines at Cambridge. He entered the clergy and his publications soon won him renown not just as a theologian but as a metaphysician; he was also a noted classical scholar. Archbishop Tenison noted that 'persons of such abilities in theology, philosophy, and mathematics, are not to be commonly found'.
by Sir George Scharf, after Unknown artist
pencil, circa 1857-1895
NPG D48212
probably by Sir George Scharf, after Unknown artist
pencil, late 19th century
NPG D48213
probably by James Donald Milner, after George Vertue
pencil, early 20th century (1732)
NPG D48214
by John Faber Jr, published by Thomas Bowles Jr, published by John Bowles
mezzotint, circa 1725-1750
NPG D19533
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