Samuel Pepys (1633-1703).

Samuel Pepys (1633-1703). © National Maritime Museum, London

Repro ID: BHC2947

Description: Samuel Pepys (1633-1703) was a diarist and administrator of the Navy. In 1660, he began his service under the patronage of Lord Sandwich, his cousin. He was initially Clerk of the Acts, and was Secretary to the Admiralty, where he created a modern state department out of an archaic office. He left the Admiralty in February 1689, when his patron, King James II, was forced to flee the country and William and Mary came to the throne. Thus, the portrait above was painted by Kneller during a turbulent year for Pepys, as it is inscribed and dated on the back 'Mr Pepes G. Kneller fecit 1689'.

Creator: Sir Godfrey Kneller

Date: 1689