Dictionary of National Biography, 1885-1900/Blakey, Nicholas
BLAKEY, NICHOLAS (fl. 1753), designer and engraver, was a native of Ireland, but resided chiefly in Paris, and died there. The dates of his birth and death are not recorded. He enjoyed a considerable reputation about the middle of the last century as an illustrator of books, and, amongst other works, designed and engraved the plates to Jonas Hanway's 'Travels in Persia,' 1753, and those to an edition of Pope's works. Blakey was associated with Francis Hayman, R.A., in the production of a set of prints of subjects from English history, of which the following bear his name only as the designer: 'The Landing of Julius Caesar,' 'Vortigem and Rowena,' and 'Alfred in the Island of Athelney receiving News of a Victory over the Danes;' these were engraved respectively by S. F. Ravenet, G. Scotin, and F. Vivares. One of Blakey's most graceful compositions is a vignette in the manner of Boucher, representing nymphs dancing under the influence of Love, engraved by John Ingram.
[Redgrave's Dictionary of Artists (1878); MS. notes in British Museum.]