Artwork

Design for a painting within an architectural setting depicting Ptolemy I commissioning the Library at Alexandria

Design for a painting within an architectural setting depicting Ptolemy I commissioning the Library at Alexandria is a drawing by James Thornhill. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This drawing is a preparatory design for a painting intended to be part of a larger architectural setting, showcasing Thornhill's planning for a grand scene.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts Ptolemy I commissioning the Library at Alexandria, a subject Thornhill explored in multiple drawings, highlighting the historical significance of the ancient library.

Technique & Style

Thornhill employed pen and ink to sketch the composition, followed by the application of wash to create a sense of depth and dimensionality, and included a scale along the bottom edge to guide the final painting's proportions.

History & Provenance

The drawing's verso features a sketch for the Clarendon Building at Oxford, indicating Thornhill's diverse architectural and artistic pursuits.