Robert Smirke

British, 1752 - 1845

Explore selected works

The drawing displays an elaborate and grand building facade. It depicts a detailed classical European building with ornate architecture, likely situated in an urban setting. The building features multiple stories, a symmetrical layout, columns, arched windows, sculptures adorning the roof line, a central tower with a dome, and a formal square or plaza. An inscription adds historical context to the piece.
Robert Smirke, Hôtel de Ville, Place des Terreaux, Lyons, 1845, pen and brown ink with gray wash over graphite on wove paper, Gift of William B. O'Neal, 1995.52.167

Hôtel de Ville, Place des Terreaux, Lyons

Robert Smirke · 1845 · pen and brown ink with gray wash over graphite on wove paper ·  Accession ID  1995.52.167
This is a drawing of an allegorical scene with mythological and classical elements. The central figure is seated, holding a trident, with a lion beside them. Two warriors in armor are battling a dragon-like creature in the clouds. Above them, two cherubs hover, one with a wreath and the other holding a banner with the word "PATRIOTIC" flanked by "F" and "S". The drawing is detailed and features soft hues.
Robert Smirke, Patriotic Fund, pen and brown ink with gray wash heightened with white on laid paper, Gift of William B. O'Neal, 1995.52.168

Patriotic Fund

Robert Smirke · pen and brown ink with gray wash heightened with white on laid paper ·  Accession ID  1995.52.168
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.
Robert Smirke, An Allegory of Britain's Naval Might, pen and black and brown inks with gray wash over graphite, squared in graphite, on laid paper, Gift of William B. O'Neal, 1995.52.166

An Allegory of Britain's Naval Might

Robert Smirke · pen and black and brown inks with gray wash over graphite, squared in graphite, on laid paper ·  Accession ID  1995.52.166
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.
Robert Smirke, An Allegory of Britain's Mercantile Power, pen and black and brown inks with gray wash over graphite, squared in graphite, on laid paper, Gift of William B. O'Neal, 1995.52.165

An Allegory of Britain's Mercantile Power

Robert Smirke · pen and black and brown inks with gray wash over graphite, squared in graphite, on laid paper ·  Accession ID  1995.52.165
""

Merry Wives of Windsor, Act V, Scene V

Isaac Taylor the younger, John Boydell, Josiah Boydell · 1795 · engraving and etching on laid paper ·  Accession ID  2017.53.50

Bibliography

1907

  • Ref Number: XXXI.164
    T.-B.XXXI.164