John Heaviside, Esq, Surgeon Extraordinary to the King

Book Description

London: Published by Laurie & Whittle, 53 Fleet Street, Aug. 25, 1803. Mezzotint. State ii/ii with engraved inscription in closed letters. Image size: 17 3/4 x 13 7/8 inches. 19 3/4 x 13 ¾ inches. 20 3/8 x 14 ¼ inches. A lovely impression of this intriguing print of John Heaviside the Royal surgeon. This stunning portrait of the surgeon to George III demonstrates Earlom's skill as an engraver. Although Earlom studied under Cipriani and Boydell, he taught himself the art of mezzotint engraving. His meticulous yet delicate technique managed to accomplish new levels of technical superiority not thought possible in mezzotint. Earlom's unique style manages to create intricate details and textures that allowed him to produce some truly outstanding images. In this captivating print, Earlom employs his refined style and painterly use of texture to produce a complex and appealing image. In inspiration and execution Earlom is a master of his art, and this portrait is a testimony to his skill and imagination as an engraver. Unfortunately the Dictionary of National Biography does not have any record of John Heaviside, therefore the particulars of his life and achievements are not readily available, but if this fascinating portrait is any indication he was an intriguing and accomplished individual. According to the text on the print Heaviside is described as George III surgeon. He is shown pointing to a human heart with a skeletal spine in a glass jar in the background. Chaloner Smith, British Mezzotinto Portraits 22, ii/ii; Russell, English Mezzotint Portraits, and their States 22; O'Donoghue, Catalogue of Engraved British Portraits... in the British Museum 3

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