John Faber after Thomas Hudson, Handel, mezzotint engraving, 1749, 359 x 254mm

Private Collection. © The Handel House Trust

As William Cox (1747-1828), one of Handel's early biographers, charmingly phrases it, Handel had "a culpable indulgence in the sensual gratifications of the table." Dr Chalres Burney (1726-1814) also acknowledges this, but adds "his countenance ... was full of fire and dignity; and such as impressed ideas of superiority and genius." This image portrays both aspects of his character.