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Thomas Hobbes in the title to 'Philosophicall Rudiments'

7 of 21 portraits of Thomas Hobbes

© National Portrait Gallery, London

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Thomas Hobbes in the title to 'Philosophicall Rudiments'

by Robert Vaughan
line engraving, circa 1651
5 1/4 in. x 2 7/8 in. (133 mm x 73 mm) paper size
Purchased with help from the Friends of the National Libraries and the Pilgrim Trust, 1966
Reference Collection
NPG D42992

Sitterback to top

  • Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679), Social philosopher. Sitter associated with 21 portraits.

Artistback to top

  • Robert Vaughan (circa 1600-circa 1660), Artist. Artist or producer associated with 77 portraits, Sitter in 4 portraits.

Related worksback to top

  • NPG D30168: Thomas Hobbes in the title to his 'Philosophicall Rudiments' (from same plate)

Events of 1651back to top

Current affairs

Charles II, crowned King of Scotland, daringly invades England. His defeat at the Battle of Worcester by Oliver Cromwell permanently ends further military action against Parliament. Charles's escape from Worcester becomes legendary, as a fugitive, he seeks refuge for six weeks before finally fleeing to Normandy.

Art and science

Social philosopher, Thomas Hobbes, publishes his major work, Leviathan. Recognised as a cornerstone of western political philosophy, Hobbes's implication that the new political authority should be accepted, angering many exiled royalists.

International

Headed by Chief Justice, Oliver St. John, a delegation is sent by the Rump Parliament to The Hague to negotiate a union between England and the Dutch Republic. The mission fails, principally over refusal by the Dutch to expel the exiled Stuart royal family from the country.

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