John Earl of Sandwich 1791 Engraving

Antique Georgian copper plate engraving engraving of John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich (1718–1792). By 1791, he was an elder statesman living out his twilight years. He is one of the most famous and multifaceted figures of the Georgian era—widely known today for popularizing the “sandwich,”.

Drawn from life by W. H. Brown and engraved by C Corbould, published according to an Act of Parliament in 1791.
The engraving where compiled for The Senator; or, Clarendon’s Parliamentary Chronicle, a set of engravings of members of parliament.
Paper measures 22 by 14 cm, plate mark area is 14 by 9 cm’s with the actual engraving 4 1/2 by 5 1/2 cm’s aprox.
The actual engraving is in very good condition for age, paper has age related marks, bumped edges, please see pictures.

John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich (1718–1792) was an eminent British statesman, naval administrator, and celebrated cultural patron whose vast historical legacy spans global exploration, politics, and culinary lore.

Succeeding to the earldom in 1729, Sandwich rose to become one of the most influential figures of the Georgian era, most notably serving three terms as First Lord of the Admiralty. As the civilian head of the Royal Navy, he presided over British naval strategy during the American Revolutionary War. A visionary patron of maritime discovery, he heavily financed and championed the Pacific expeditions of Captain James Cook, who subsequently named the Sandwich Islands (modern-day Hawaii) in his honor.

Beyond statecraft, his immense dedication to his duties—and his legendary card table stamina—popularized the convenient meal that permanently bears his name. By 1790, Sandwich had retired from the political frontline to dedicate himself to his profound passion for classical music, serving as a principal director of the Concerts of Antient Music. This antique print captures a truly towering icon of the late eighteenth century, representing the apex of British imperial reach and aristocratic influence.

Tracked postage €7.