Portret van Richard Steele 1712 - 1744

Wouter Jongman made this engraving of Richard Steele. It offers a glimpse into the cultural and intellectual life of the 18th century. Steele was an influential writer and politician in England. He is perhaps best known for co-founding "The Spectator," a daily publication that shaped public opinion and manners. Jongman’s print captures Steele’s likeness and also serves as a symbolic representation of his status and intellectual contributions. The formal framing of the portrait—the oval border and inscription—speak to the conventions of portraiture during this period and underscore the institutional importance of commemorating public figures. To fully understand this work, we might ask questions about the relationship between print culture, political power, and the formation of public opinion in 18th-century England. We can also look into Steele’s writings, biographies, and other historical sources. In doing so, we see art not just as a decorative object, but as a window into the complex interplay of social, political, and cultural forces that shape our world.