Shakespeare Monument in Church at Stratford-on-Avon

James Neagle after Josiah Boydell

Associated Names
James Neagle

Artist, British, c. 1769 - 1822

Josiah Boydell

Artist After, British, 1752 - 1817

The sculpture depicts a bust of William Shakespeare within an elaborate architectural framework. The bust shows him in a seated position, holding a quill in his right hand and a piece of paper or scroll with his left hand. He is dressed in attire typical of the Elizabethan era, with a high-collared garment. The sculpture is monochrome, etched in shades of gray, and appears to be a detailed engraving. Above Shakespeare's bust, there is an ornate pediment featuring a coat of arms and a small bust of a skull at the top. Flanking the coat of arms are two cherub-like figures, each holding a musical instrument. The sculpture is situated beneath a classical arch supported by two columns, giving it the appearance of a grand memorial or monument with an inscription below the bust.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    plate: 27.3 × 16.3 cm (10 3/4 × 6 7/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1950.14.1093


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

W. B. Dukes [d. 1942], London, (L.2757a); (Sotheby, London, sale July 8, 1942, no. 112); Lessing J. Rosenwald [1891 - 1979], Philadelphia, (L.1932d); gift to NGA, 1950.

Associated Names

Wikidata ID

Q65359205

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