51�Թ���

This elegant oval engraving (likely 19th century) is a classic portrait of Samuel Johnson (1709-1784). It is based on paintings by his friend Sir Joshua Reynolds, especially the famous “Blinking Sam” type. Johnson is shown wearing his characteristic powdered wig, with a strongly expressive face scarred by scrofula, an intense sideways gaze, and simple clothing. This stipple engraving style was extremely popular in the 19th century for illustrating editions of his Dictionary or Boswell’s Life of Samuel Johnson. It perfectly captures the legendary image of the gruff, brilliant, and commanding literary figure at the heart of London’s intellectual scene. The clean black oval on a light background is a very typical Victorian-era presentation. ► Vintage engraving circa late 19th century. Digital restoration by pictore. Authentic illustration free of artificial intelligence.