Antique 1862 Steel Engraving of John Hancock — After Alonzo Chappel, Published by Johnson, Fry & Co., New York
You are looking at an original 19th-century steel engraving of John Hancock (1737–1793) — President of the Continental Congress, first and most prominent signer of the Declaration of Independence, and Governor of Massachusetts. This is a genuine antique print, not a modern reproduction.
The engraving depicts Hancock in a full-length seated portrait: dressed in a dark coat and waistcoat, seated in an ornate Chippendale-style chair, holding an open book, with a writing table and inkwell beside him. The image is rich with fine detail, showcasing the exceptional quality of 19th-century steel engraving. Below the image is a facsimile of Hancock’s famous signature.
The publisher line beneath the image reads:
“From the original Picture by Chappel in the possession of the Publishers / Johnson, Fry & Co. Publishers, New York”
This print was produced by Johnson, Fry & Co. for their celebrated multi-volume work National Portrait Gallery of Eminent Americans (circa 1862), featuring portraits painted by Alonzo Chappel (1828–1887), the foremost American historical portrait painter of the 19th century. Chappel’s portraits of the Founding Fathers remain the definitive visual record of the Revolutionary generation, and Johnson/Fry prints are among the most collected American historical engravings.
John Hancock needs little introduction — his name has been synonymous with the Declaration of Independence for 250 years. The bold, oversized signature that dominates the bottom of the Declaration was a deliberate act of defiance, and it made Hancock one of the most recognizable figures of the American founding. This portrait captures him in a moment of quiet authority, the open book in his hands a nod to his reputation as a man of letters and law.
Condition: Good antique condition. The engraved image is clean, sharp, and fully intact. Paper shows light age toning consistent with 19th-century stock. The right edge shows small binding tears/notches where this print was removed from a bound volume — typical and expected for prints from this series. No significant foxing on the image area. Displays beautifully as-is or would be stunning properly matted and framed.
What you receive: The original antique engraving only. Not framed. Genuine 19th-century print.
Ships flat between rigid cardboard, fully insured.
A must-have for collectors of American historical prints, Founding Father memorabilia, or anyone who appreciates the extraordinary craftsmanship of 19th-century steel engraving.