Benjamin Franklin — Engraved Portrait after the Nini Medallion
Engraved by James Heath after a drawing by Thomas Walpole
Circa late 18th century
Sight: 5½ x 3½ inches; frame: 8½ x 6½ inches
 
A finely engraved oval portrait of Benjamin Franklin in right profile, engraved by James Heath after a drawing by Thomas Walpole, derived from the celebrated 1777 portrait medallion by the French sculptor Jean-Baptiste Nini. Franklin appears wearing the distinctive fur cap that became one of the most recognizable visual attributes of the American philosopher-statesman during his years in Europe.
 
Beneath the portrait appears a French poetic inscription praising Franklin’s achievements, describing the man who “stole fire from the heavens”—a reference to his experiments with electricity—and who brought the arts and enlightenment to America. Such language reflects the profound admiration Franklin inspired in France during the era of the American Revolution, where his scientific reputation and diplomatic role made him one of the most celebrated figures of the age.
 
The engraving also notes that the portrait was taken “from a Medallion, in the possession of Dr. Lettsom,” referring to the physician and philanthropist John Coakley Lettsom, a friend and admirer of Franklin.
 
Condition: Very fine, with light foxing.