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[4] Imaginative reconstruction drawing probably intended for exhibition at the Royal Academy but not used, by J.M.Gandy, 21 February 1800
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Reference number
SM 14/4/4
Purpose
[4] Imaginative reconstruction drawing probably intended for exhibition at the Royal Academy but not used, by J.M.Gandy, 21 February 1800
Aspect
Perspective
Signed and dated
- Febry 21st 1800
Medium and dimensions
Pen, raw umber, burnt umber, sepia, blue, green and pink washes, watercolour technique, shaded on laid paper (632 x 972)
Hand
J.M.Gandy (1771-1843)
Watermark
1794 J Whatman
Notes
The Soane Office Day Book for this period shows that J.M.Gandy spent from Tuesday 11 February to Friday 21 February, 1800 (nine and a half working days) on this 'Perspective View of a Mausoleum [for] Mr Soane'. It shows a circular domed temple, with larger than life-size statues including Hope with an anchor and (crowning the dome) the clothed figure of Death the Reaper. The rotunda is bathed in a light that leaves the rusticated chamber under the temple in shadow. In the shadowy doorway, a figure holds a blazing torch - its smoke eddying into the sepulchral chamber. Gigantic fluted and festooned funerary urns encircle the building. Along a winding path, a funeral procession approaches past forest trees and a range of hills fills the background. Above, a strong blue sky with clouds reflects the late afternoon sun. The golden sun-lit monument of Gandy's perspective contrasts with the varied blue tints of sky, hills, trees and grass. The scene is solemn but celebratory. Though large and impressive as well as evocative the drawing was not hung at the Royal Academy exhibition of 1800 (date of the drawing). Instead, some of Gandy's perspectives for other schemes were chosen. There is a reduced copy by C.J.Richardson, dated 1830, in the V&A Museum see P.du Prey, Sir John Soane, 1985, in series of 'Catalogues of architectural drawings in the Victoria and Albert Museum', catalogue 25.
Level
Drawing
Digitisation of the Drawings Collection has been made possible through the generosity of the Leon Levy Foundation
If you have any further information about this object, please contact us: drawings@soane.org.uk