s Milton - Hull Museums Collections

Milton

Milton (after bust by Edward Pierce, c.1660) made by English School, 18th century John Milton (1608-74) was one of the 17th century's greatest poets. His works show the influence of his Christian education and his love of Italian Renaissance poetry. A staunch parliamentarian, he published many pamphlets during the Civil War period. His greatest work was the epic poem Paradise Lost. The expressionless 'stare' of Milton reveals his blindness, a factor proven to be no obstacle for a man who also served as Latin Secretary to Cromwell's Council of State. This a copy of a bust by the established sculptor, Edward Pierce (c.1635-95), of which there is a plaster cast in the National Portrait Gallery. Pierce was one of the best sculptors of his day and his work was much copied. It is one of two busts portraying Milton in the Ferens’ collection. Marble Bequeathed in 1930 by T.R. Ferens.