John Hampden Jacobus Houbraken (1698-1780)

The engraving presents a man in formal military attire, depicted within an oval frame embellished with intricate scrollwork. He is positioned centrally, facing slightly towards the viewers left, his gaze directed upwards and away from the observer. The rendering emphasizes a solemnity of expression; the brow is furrowed, suggesting contemplation or perhaps even concern. His hair is dark and styled in the fashion of the period, neatly trimmed but with a degree of naturalness.
The armor he wears is detailed, reflecting the conventions of portraiture intended to convey status and authority. The plate construction is clearly delineated through careful shading, contributing to an impression of strength and resilience. Surrounding the oval frame are inscriptions: John on the left and Amptden on the right, along with a Latin phrase that appears to be part of the dedication or epitaph.
Below the portrait, a smaller scene unfolds across a rolled scroll. Here we see figures engaged in what seems to be a military confrontation – individuals are depicted gesturing and interacting amidst a chaotic setting. The composition suggests a moment of action, possibly representing a significant event from the subject’s life. A Latin inscription is visible on the scroll, Magna Charta, which alludes to the historical document guaranteeing certain rights and liberties.
The overall effect is one of reverence and commemoration. The formal pose, the detailed armor, and the inclusion of the Magna Carta reference combine to portray a figure of importance – a man associated with principles of justice and resistance against perceived oppression. The engraving’s monochromatic palette reinforces this sense of gravity and timelessness, lending it an air of historical significance.