Pair Of Georgian Shakespeare Engravings

Pair Of Georgian Shakespeare Engravings

This accomplished pair of Georgian engravings depict two scenes from Shakespeare. The first, engraved by Benjamin Smith (act. 1786-1833) after George Romney (1734-1802), references The Tempest, Act I, Scene I. The second, engraved by Francesco Bartolozzi (1727-1815) after William Hamilton (1751-1801) references Twelfth night, Act V, Scene I. Both were published by John and Josiah Boydell in 1797.

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.

Theatrical scenes such as these bring a quiet sense of drama to an interior and suggest a keen wit.

Framed and glazed.

Medium: Stipple engravings on paper
Overall size: 28” x 22½” / 72cm x 57cm
Year of creation: 1797
Condition: A few areas of foxing and light staining. Frames with some 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 often restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.

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