John Dryden
3 of 31 portraits of John Dryden
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John Dryden
after Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt
oil on panel, feigned oval, based on a work of 1697
12 in. x 10 in. (305 mm x 254 mm)
Purchased, 1858
Primary Collection
NPG 57
Sitterback to top
- John Dryden (1631-1700), Dramatist and Poet Laureate. Sitter associated with 31 portraits.
Artistback to top
- Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt (1646-1723), Portrait painter. Artist or producer associated with 1689 portraits, Sitter associated with 30 portraits.
Linked publicationsback to top
- Portrait (Spring/Summer 2013), 2013, p. 44 number 22
- Ingamells, John, Later Stuart Portraits 1685-1714, 2009, p. 81
- Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 187
Events of 1697back to top
Current affairs
William III argues for the existence of a peacetime standing army to maintain England's safety. Unpopular with both political parties, Robert Harley, Earl of Oxford, leads the opposition against the proposal.The first service at St. Paul Cathedral is held since the building was destroyed by the Great Fire.
Art and science
Circumnavigator, William Dampier, publishes New Voyage Round the World.Painter and member of the Whiggish Kit-Cat Club, Godfrey Kneller starts to paint the club's members devising a special portrait size for the series.
International
Negotiations between William Bentinck, Earl of Portland, and Louis XIV's representative, Marshal Boufflers, effectuate the signing of a peace treaty at Ryswick, ending the Nine Years' War with France. The terms include re-establishment of the territorial position in 1688 and Louis's acknowledgement of William III as King of England.Tell us more back to top
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