Illustration to Ben Jonson's 'The Alchemist'
- Artist: John Graham
- Artist: Charles Grignion
- Date: circa 1791
- Medium: etching
- Dimensions: Long Term Loan
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
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About this artwork
In front of you is a finely drawn etching from about 1791, created by Charles Grignion based on a design by John Graham. The piece shows two figures in period dress, each wearing characteristic hats and spectacles that suggest the theatrical setting of Ben Jonson’s play “The Alchemist.” The line work is crisp, with careful shading that gives depth to the costumes and their polished faces. The composition frames the actors as if they are ready on stage, while subtle details—such as a quill or scroll in hand—hint at the play’s scholarly theme. This illustration brings the drama of the 17th‑century stage into clear, engraved form.
See it in person
Illustration to Ben Jonson's 'The Alchemist' is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
