Pair Of Georgian Shakespeare Engravings

Pair Of Georgian Shakespeare Engravings

This fine pair of Georgian engravings depict two scenes from Shakespeare. The first, engraved by Robert Thew (1758-1802) after John Hoppner RA (1758-1810), references Cymbeline, Act III, Scene VI. This was one of the bard’s final plays and it’s abundant with seduction and deceit. The second, engraved by William Satchwell Leney (1769-1831) after John Downman ARA (1750-1824), references As You Like It, Act 1, Scene 2. Both were published by John and Josiah Boydell in 1800 and 1801 respectively.

During the early 19th-century, there was a reinvigorated desire for Shakespeare, partly due to the Romantics who held his works in high regard. John Boydell looked to meet this new demand by opening a gallery in London to display a range of commissioned artworks inspired by his plays. Each painting was then engraved and published.

Framed and glazed.

Learn more about Robert Thew in our directory.

Medium: Stipple engravings on paper
Overall size: 28½” x 23” / 73cm x 59cm
Year of creation: 1800 and 1801
Condition: A few areas of foxing and light staining. Frames with some light wear.

Conservation & History

We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.

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