An Allegory of Britain's Naval Might

Robert Smirke

Associated Names
Robert Smirke

Artist, British, 1752 - 1845

This is a drawing depicting a classical mythological scene. On the left, a seated figure is observing the central scene, where a standing figure in robes and a helmet points to the right. Another similarly clad character observes nearby, and a lion stands boldly next to them. To the right, a floating figure extends an arm towards a background showing a fleet of ships at sea. Sea creatures or nymphs are visible in the foreground, adding movement to the scene. The composition is in delicate lines with subtle shadings.

Media Options

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

  • Accession Number

    1995.52.166

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

upper right in graphite: 11; by later hand, upper right verso in graphite: N/C / CH / 26 / 512 / 1/2 box / Clip

Wikidata ID

Q64629083

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