Samuel Pepys by John Riley. A three-quarter portrait of a man with voluminous dark curly hair, a lace neckpiece, and a brown mantle against a dark background.

Samuel Pepys

John Riley

1650 · Oil Paint, Canvas

A dignified 17th-century portrait of Samuel Pepys characterized by rich textures and dramatic chiaroscuro lighting.

$129

For the selected configuration

From $129

5 frame sizes

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Paper type
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Where it works

A grounded artwork with confident presence in a warmer tonal register — brings a composed sense of weight.

Often works in
Library · Study · Office
Placement
Reads best as a confident vertical anchor
Walls
Reads strongest on light or mid-tone walls
Color notes
Charcoal black

About the piece

Attributed to the English court painter John Riley, this portrait captures the famous diarist Samuel Pepys in a moment of sober reflection. The work is defined by the meticulous rendering of his elaborate wig and lace cravat, set against a deep, atmospheric background that emphasizes the sitter's presence.