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SKU: CG-FLPM-1876-CROMWELL
Original illustrated magazine leaf from Frank Leslie’s Popular Monthly, December 1876, Vol. II, No. 6, pages 673–674.
The large engraved portrait depicts Oliver Cromwell, the English military and political leader who became Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland during the Commonwealth period following the English Civil War.
The engraving is captioned:
“Oliver Cromwell — From the Portrait by Cuyt.”
Below the portrait begins the article “Cromwell and His Contemporaries,” discussing the political upheaval and constitutional struggles of seventeenth-century Europe, including the conflicts between monarchy and Parliament that led to the rise of Cromwell’s government.
The reverse page continues the article with historical discussion of the reigns of Elizabeth I, James I, and Charles I, and the constitutional conflicts that ultimately produced the English Civil War.
Frank Leslie’s illustrated periodicals were among the most influential nineteenth-century American magazines, presenting historical subjects, biographies, and world events through finely engraved illustrations.
Significance
Oliver Cromwell (1599–1658) was the central figure of the English Civil War and the leader of the Parliamentary forces that defeated King Charles I. After the king’s execution in 1649, Cromwell eventually ruled England as Lord Protector, effectively governing the country as a republic during the Interregnum.
During the nineteenth century Cromwell became a subject of renewed historical interest, with historians and writers reassessing his role in the development of constitutional government and parliamentary authority.
Illustrated magazines such as Frank Leslie’s Popular Monthly frequently published portraits of important historical figures to accompany essays introducing readers to major personalities and turning points in European history.
Portrait engravings of major historical figures—especially Cromwell, Napoleon, Washington, and other political leaders—were a staple of Victorian illustrated journalism and remain collectible today.
Condition
Fair to good antique condition.
Heavy age toning and spotting, especially along the top margin.
Edge wear and small losses at the corners.
Text and engraving remain clear and well defined.
Please examine photos carefully for condition.
Oliver Cromwell portrait
English Civil War engraving
Lord Protector England
Frank Leslie illustrated magazine
Victorian historical engraving
17th century English history
Cromwell portrait print
