Samuel Johnson

"Samuel Johnson" by Joshua Reynolds (1756–1757) is a renowned portrait capturing the English lexicographer reading, rendered in oil paint. The artwork is notable for highlighting Johnson's vision problems, which he humorously criticized, famously referring to himself as "Blinking Sam." Created during the Rococo period, the portrait exemplifies Reynolds's mastery of canvas and detail. It is widely regarded as Johnson's most famous portrait and has gained prominence as an internet meme since 2012. The piece is housed at The Huntington Library in California.