John Paul Jones.

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  SKU: 101974

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• ARTIST: Simon Fokke

• PUBLISHER: Published by A. B. Saakes, Amsterdam

• MEDIUM: Engraving,

  DATE: 1779

• EDITION SIZE: Image size 1 7/8" x 3 3/8" ( 4.8 x 8.7 cm) plus margin

• DESCRIPTION: This portrait of John Paul Jones, the earliest known engraved image of the celebrated American naval commander, depicts him in profile against a backdrop of sailing ships, symbolizing his maritime achievements. The inscription beneath reads "Afgeschetst in den Schouwburg te Amsterdam den 9 October 1779" ("Sketched in the theatre in Amsterdam on Oct. 9, 1779"). Credited to Amsterdam-based artist Simon Fokke, this engraving was published in De Vaderlandsche Historie in Themata in 1779. Following his remarkable victory at the Battle of Flamborough Head—where he famously declared, "I have not yet begun to fight"—Jones brought the severely damaged, captured HMS Serapis to the Dutch island of Texel for essential repairs. Despite British demands for his arrest as a “pirate,” the Dutch instead welcomed him to Amsterdam, where he was honored for his daring spirit and strategic brilliance in naval warfare. This portrait captures both his resolute gaze and the admiration he commanded abroad.

• ADDITIONAL INFO: This piece is in a 6 1/4 x 9 1/2 inch archival mylar and backed with archival quality mat board for safe handling.

• CONDITION: Good condition. Archivally hinged on a acid-free backer. Some paper loss in the top margin. Would be covered by the mat when framed.

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• CATEGORIES: 18th-19th Century Subjects , Portraits