Artwork

Pencil drawing of a fountain and entryway

Pencil drawing of a fountain and entryway, by Unknown, 1750
Pencil drawing of a fountain and entryway, by Unknown, 1750

Pencil drawing of a fountain and entryway is a drawing by Unknown. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1750 pencil drawing presents two interconnected architectural elements: an ornate fountain and an adjacent entryway, rendered in light, rough lines suggestive of a quick sketch.

Subject & Meaning

The fountain, with a hexagonal base, niched figures, and a vase spouting water, is set before a backdrop of trees. The entryway features a central arch flanked by seated female figures and topped by a male sculpture integrated into a watchtower-like structure.

Technique & Style

Characterized by light, rough hatching, the drawing appears to be a preliminary sketch rather than a finished work, emphasizing the capture of form and layout over detailed refinement.

History & Provenance

Originally part of architect Charles James Richardson's collection of design albums, the drawing was acquired by the museum in 1863.

Context

Given its sketchy nature and origin within an architect's design collection, the drawing likely served as a conceptual or inspirational note for architectural or garden design projects.

Legacy

While not a polished artwork, it provides insight into 18th-century design interests and the preliminary creative processes of its time.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known