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Smolensk City View – Hand-Coloured Aquatint by R. Bowyer, Pall Mall, 1814

$271.94
£200.78
€230VAT Included
CA$377.74
A$379.41
CHF 219.99
MX$4,629.25
NOK 2,545.97
SEK 2,612.30
DKK 1,753.73

About the Item

Smolensk City View – Hand-Coloured Aquatint by R. Bowyer, Pall Mall, 1814 This finely executed hand-coloured aquatint presents a panoramic view of Smolensk, a historic city in western Russia, published by Rudolph Ackermann’s contemporary and fellow London print publisher, Robert Bowyer, in 1814. The scene is taken from a vantage point along the Dnieper River, with the city rising gently in the distance. Domed church towers and fortified walls are visible on the horizon, testifying to Smolensk’s long-standing role as a strategic stronghold. The foreground depicts a peaceful riverside setting with small sailing craft navigating the calm waters, while on the right, a group of figures in traditional Russian dress stand beneath tall trees, accompanied by a reclining figure and a dog. The print was issued during a period of heightened British interest in Russia, following the Napoleonic Wars and the pivotal 1812 French invasion of Russia, in which Smolensk played a significant role as a fiercely contested city. Bowyer’s publication was likely part of a series documenting key locations tied to the campaigns and the landscapes of the Russian Empire. The work’s aquatint technique, with delicate hand-colouring, adds atmospheric depth to the sky and soft gradations to the rolling hills and architectural features. Robert Bowyer (1758–1834) was a prominent London publisher best known for his high-quality historical and military prints. His works were often aimed at collectors interested in contemporary political and military events, produced to exacting standards. This view of Smolensk is a fine example of his collaborations with skilled aquatint engravers and colourists, bringing together topographical accuracy with artistic charm. Condition: Good for age. Light overall toning, minor handling marks to margins, and faint foxing in places. Original plate mark visible. Colours remain fresh and well-preserved. Framing tips: A dark wood or mahogany frame with a cream or light beige archival mat will enhance the warm tones of the landscape and sky. A thin gilt fillet inside the mat could complement the historical nature of the piece. Technique: Hand-coloured aquatint Maker: R. Bowyer, London, 1814
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 13.08 in (33.2 cm)Width: 17.33 in (44 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Paper,Engraved
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1814
  • Condition:
    Condition: Good for age. Light overall toning, minor handling marks to margins, and faint foxing in places. Original plate mark visible. Colours remain fresh and well-preserved.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-140731stDibs: LU3054346247682

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