Henry Howard RA (1769 - 1847)
The Vision of Shakespeare
1829-30
Oil on canvas
Height: 125.7cm
Width: 100.3cm
Width: 100.3cm
Inscription: Shakespeare. Resting on the lap of fancy is contemplating the "visions of glory" which she invokes, while Lyrical Poetry rising from the earth invites him to ascend the brightest heaven of invention. Tragedy and comedy are calling before him. The shadowy forms of his principle dramatic characters near him. Titania, watched by Oberon, is sleeping in her bower; and a train of fairies are sporting about him. On one side the stars are shooting from their spheres "to hear the sea maid's music", on the other side is the Tempest, the enchanted isle, and its inhabitants. Above is Hecate, riding on a cloud and Genii, the offspring of fancy, are hovering near her sweetest child.
Inscription note: Incorporated within the picture frame but on a separate panel, beneath the painting.
Inscription note: Incorporated within the picture frame but on a separate panel, beneath the painting.
Museum number: P213
On display: Shakespeare Recess
All spaces are in No. 13 Lincoln's Inn Fields unless identified as in No. 12, Soane's first house.
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©Sir John Soane's Museum, London. Photo: Art UK