Skip to main content
Advanced Search
1995-205, Print
His Excellency Arthur Dobbs Esq.r
1995-205, Print

His Excellency Arthur Dobbs Esq.r

Date1753-1765
Engraver 1728 - 1765
After work by
Publisher
OriginEngland, London
MediumMezzotint engraving on laid paper
DimensionsOverall: 13 7/8 × 9 7/8 in (35.24 × 25.08cm)
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1995-205
DescriptionThe lower margin reads: "His Excellency Arthur Dobbs Esq.r/ Will.m Hoare Pinx.t/ Ja.s M.cArdell Fecit/ Captain GENERAL, GOVERNOUR in Chief & Vice Admiral of the PROVENCE of/ North Carolina, in AMERICA./ London Sold by Hen: Jouret, Picture frame maker & Print-seller at the Golden Frame in Maiden Lane."Label TextMaps, in particular, were regarded as scientific and authoritative documents, imparting a perception of power and control over the environment. Artists often used illustrations of maps as symbolic props in paintings and prints. For example, in 1753, Arthur Dobbs was appointed Governor of North Carolina. Prior to his departure for the colonies, he sat for his portrait, choosing to be viewed holding a map titled "North Carolina." The placement of that map firmly in his hand represented far more than merely his position as governor. Maps symbolized power and intellect, and Governor Arthur Dobbs saw himself as firmly grasping both.ProvenanceBefore 1995, Henry Taliaferro (New York, NY), 1995-present, purchased by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA)