Artwork
Study for 'The Antiquary's Cell'
Study for 'The Antiquary's Cell' is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist Edward William RA FRS FSA Cooke. It dates from 1835 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Cooke made this study in 1835—150 years before color TV—so every object had to feel real without the help of cheap tricks.
This watercolor by Edward William Cooke was a warm-up for a bigger painting called *The Antiquary’s Cell*. Cooke made this study in 1835—150 years before color TV—so every object had to feel real without the help of cheap tricks.
He visited London antique shops to pick out old furniture and weird plants and bones. John Sheepshanks, who owned the room, later bought eleven Cooke paintings and several of these practice sheets.
See Cooke’s finished painting next door at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This watercolour serves as a preparatory study for Edward William Cooke's painting, 'The Antiquary's Cell', commissioned by John Sheepshanks. It depicts the interior of Sheepshanks' study in Barnes, near Putney.
Subject & Meaning
The study meticulously captures the cluttered, eclectic atmosphere of an antiquary's space, reflecting Sheepshanks' interests in collecting antiquities, botanical, and zoological specimens.
Technique & Style
Executed in 1835, the watercolour demonstrates Cooke's attention to detail and ability to render a convincing assemblage of objects without relying on modern visual aids, showcasing his observational skill.
History & Provenance
Commissioned by John Sheepshanks, this study is part of a larger collection of eleven Cooke paintings and several preparatory watercolours owned by Sheepshanks.
Context
To ensure authenticity, Cooke researched by visiting antique dealers on London's Wardour Street and various curiosity shops, gathering references for the diverse collection depicted.
Legacy
The completed painting, 'The Antiquary's Cell', is housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum, with this study providing insight into Cooke's preparatory process.
Artist & collection
Artist
Edward William RA FRS FSA Cooke
This watercolor artist worked in 19th-century Britain, painting coastal scenes and everyday details.
Study of a fireplace, a writing desk and a rush-seated ladderback chair
Interior of a Studio
The Builder's Yard
Drawing Room at Cliveden
The Etcher
Study for "The Peep-O’-Day Boys’ Cabin, in the West of Ireland" ("The Sleeping Whiteboy")
Bed Room, Stenton
The Artist's Studio
Interior of Charles West's Workshop
Library at Wray Castle
A Welsh dresser
The Venetian Ambassador's Room at Knole, Kent