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50 casts from ancient gems made by Nathaniel Marchant, in a glazed frame
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50 casts from ancient gems made by Nathaniel Marchant, in a glazed frame
Plaster cast
Museum number: DR10
On display: Dressing Room
All spaces are in No. 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields unless identified as in No. 12, Soane's first house.
For tours https://www.soane.org/your-visit
Curatorial note
Marchant's set of 100 casts from gems was sold by subscription and accompanied by a printed Catalogue of One Hundred Impressions from Gems engraved by Nathaniel Marchant, published in 1792 (there is a copy in Soane's library, Sale Catalogue xviii). Soane framed his set in two groups of 50. Soane Archive Ledger B, 6 July 1793 (and identical entry in Soane Journal 2) records 'Paid Mr Nath. Marchant the remainder of the subscription to a set of Impressions from Gems £2.2.0. This frame contains impressions nos. 50-100.
Nathanial Marchant (1739-1816) was probably the most famous gem engraver of the 19th century, prolific in both Italy and England. He became gem sculptor to the Prince of Wales and engraver to The King.
Soane's collection also contains a portrait of Nathaniel Marchant (P27).
Nathanial Marchant (1739-1816) was probably the most famous gem engraver of the 19th century, prolific in both Italy and England. He became gem sculptor to the Prince of Wales and engraver to The King.
Soane's collection also contains a portrait of Nathaniel Marchant (P27).
Provenance
Purchased by John Soane from Nathaniel Marchant in 1792-93.
Associated items
Soane collections online is being continually updated. If you wish to find out more or if you have any further information about this object please contact us: worksofart@soane.org.uk