Design for a Shakespeare Memorial

Walter Crane

Associated Names
Walter Crane

Artist, British, 1845 - 1915

This is a drawing of a figure standing on a globe or rounded pedestal, clad in robes suggesting authority or intellectual presence. Below the figure, two smaller seated figures appear engaged and attentive, with one holding what seems to be a garland or chain. The style is reminiscent of classical or neoclassical art, emphasizing themes of enlightenment, wisdom, or theatrical grandeur. The color palette is limited, using shades of brown with white highlights to create depth and emphasis, conveying a sense of drama and formality.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and black ink with gray wash heightened with white on brown wove paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of William B. O'Neal

  • Dimensions

    overall: 55 x 39.6 cm (21 5/8 x 15 9/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1995.52.36


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Durlacher Brothers, London); purchased by William B. O'Neal, Charlottesville, VA, 1964-1994; gift to NGA, 1995.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

1971

  • Master Drawings from the O'Neal Collection, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond and tour, 1971-1972

Bibliography

1993

  • NGA O'Neal 1993, cat 95.

Inscriptions

by later hands on verso in graphite: Design for Shakespeare Memorial / 6112 / Pur. Rct. 4617.1

Wikidata ID

Q64633997

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