| Method | Copper engraving |
| Artist | after John Donowell |
| Published | c. 1770 |
| Dimensions | Image 255 x 415 mm, Plate 280 x 435 mm, Sheet 323 x 490 mm |
| Notes |
An unusual and rather crude Vue D'optique style engraving of St. Aldates based on Donowell's earlier prints of Oxford done in the 1750's. The view shows Tom Tower of Christ Church in the centre, to the left is Carfax Conduit. In the foreground are groups of figures going about their daily business beside the old arcaded Carfax butter bench and penniless bench. Donowell's pioneering work was the basis for many of the Oxonian compositions that would be replicated by other artists throughout the following centuries. These views include the view of the Sheldonian Theatre from Broad Street, the curve of the High Street looking west from Queen's College, as well as Christ Church from the Carfax Conduit. The success of Donowell's series is exemplified by their reworking by later artists, and their pirating for the foreign print trade, as can be seen in Daumont's reversed Vues D'optique. John Donowell (1753 - 1786) was an eighteenth-century British architect and engraver, most notable for his architectural work at West Wycombe Park in Buckinghamshire, where he appears to have been influenced by the works of Colen Campbell. Alongside Thomas Sandby and Thomas Malton, Donowell was considered to be one of the principal architect-draughtsmen in the third quarter of the eighteenth-century. He drew a number of topographical drawings, mostly views of London. His work was exhibited at the Royal Academy in the 1770's and 1780's, and was also published as prints during this period. Condition:Toning to sheet. Pin holes to top margin and water stain to left sheet edge. Minor ink stains to sky area of image. Tape residue to verso corners. |
| Framing | unmounted |
| Price | £250.00 |
| Stock ID | 50810 |