An Allegory of Britain's Mercantile Power

Robert Smirke

Associated Names
Robert Smirke

Artist, British, 1752 - 1845

This is a drawing of an allegorical scene. It features multiple figures and symbolic elements that suggest a mythological or allegorical narrative. In the foreground, a seated figure draped in classical attire holds a shield with a flag motif and is accompanied by a reclining lion. To the right, standing figures dressed in flowing garments hold symbolic items. Above them, a winged figure with a trumpet hovers amidst clouds. In the background, there are softly sketched ships on water, and a dome-like structure on the horizon. The lines and shading convey an elegant composition consistent with classical themes.

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 and brown inks with gray wash over graphite, squared in graphite, on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of William B. O'Neal

  • Dimensions

    overall: 11.2 x 19.3 cm (4 7/16 x 7 5/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1995.52.165


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Covent Garden Gallery, Ltd. [William Drummond], London); purchased by William B. O'Neal, Charlottesville, VA, 1978-1994; gift to NGA, 1995.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

lower center in graphite: 4.[?].6; center right in graphite: 2 [?]. 5; upper left in graphite: 12; by later hand, upper right verso in graphite: N/C / CM / 26 / 5B / 1/2 box / Clip

Watermarks

BUTTAN SHAW

Wikidata ID

Q64629082

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