B. Franklin of Philadelphia L.L.D. F.R.S.

Spittalfields, London: M. Chamberlin, 1763. Mezzotint engraving. Trimmed with slight losses to the image and title area. This mezzotint portrait of Benjamin Franklin, based on a 1762 painting by Mason Chamberlin, captures the Founding Father in a moment of thoughtful reflection, surrounded by scientific instruments that highlight his roles as a scientist, inventor, diplomat, and philosopher.

This mezzotint portrait of Benjamin Franklin is a masterful work by Edward Fisher, based on a 1762 painting by Mason Chamberlin. The portrait captures Franklin, one of America's most revered Founding Fathers, in an intimate, contemplative moment at his (truncated) desk, surrounded by scientific instruments. These details reflect Franklins multifaceted life as a scientist, inventor, diplomat, and philosopher. His calm expression and thoughtful gaze convey the intellectual depth and curiosity that earned him a distinguished place in both American and European circles. Notably, Franklin is shown wearing simple attire, emblematic of his practical wisdom and humility, in contrast to the more ornate clothing common in European portraits of the era. Produced in London, this mezzotint exemplifies the 18th-century practice of using printmaking to replicate portraits of influential figures. The inclusion of Franklins academic titles, "L.L.D." (Doctor of Laws) and "F.R.S." (Fellow of the Royal Society), underscores his international acclaim, particularly in Europe, where he was celebrated for his contributions to science, especially in electricity, and diplomacy. This image became one of the most widely circulated representations of Franklin, spreading his likeness across the Atlantic and reinforcing his reputation during his time as a diplomat in England and later France. According to Chaloner Smith, this engraving was Franklin's favourite likeness of himself during the 1760s, as it emphasized his scientific achievements. Franklin understood the role of portraiture in shaping public reputation and distributed this likeness widely. In a 1764 letter to his friend Ezra Stiles, he noted: "They are said, in Point of Execution, to be extreamly well done," and included several copies for Stiles to distribute. As a product of both British artistic tradition and the Enlightenment spirit, this print reflects Franklin's role in bridging the intellectual and political worlds of America and Europe during the revolutionary era.

Chaloner Smith II, p.493, no.19 (ii). See also: Brandon Brame Fortune with Deborah J. Warner, Franklin and His Friends: Portraying the Man of Science in Eighteenth-Century America. (Inventory #: 41330)