Views of Europe · 19th century
€ 230
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
for age. Light overall toning, minor handling marks to margins, and faint foxing in places. Original plate mark visible. Colours remain fresh and well-preserved.
Smolensk City View – Hand-Coloured Aquatint by R. Bowyer, Pall Mall, 1814
This finely executed hand-coloured aquatint presents a panoramic view of Smolensk, a historic city in western Russia, published by Rudolph Ackermann’s contemporary and fellow London print publisher, Robert Bowyer, in 1814.
The scene is taken from a vantage point along the Dnieper River, with the city rising gently in the distance. Domed church towers and fortified walls are visible on the horizon, testifying to Smolensk’s long-standing role as a strategic stronghold. The foreground depicts a peaceful riverside setting with small sailing craft navigating the calm waters, while on the right, a group of figures in traditional Russian dress stand beneath tall trees, accompanied by a reclining figure and a dog.
The print was issued during a period of heightened British interest in Russia, following the Napoleonic Wars and the pivotal 1812 French invasion of Russia, in which Smolensk played a significant role as a fiercely contested city. Bowyer’s publication was likely part of a series documenting key locations tied to the campaigns and the landscapes of the Russian Empire. The work’s aquatint technique, with delicate hand-colouring, adds atmospheric depth to the sky and soft gradations to the rolling hills and architectural features.
Robert Bowyer (1758–1834) was a prominent London publisher best known for his high-quality historical and military prints. His works were often aimed at collectors interested in contemporary political and military events, produced to exacting standards. This view of Smolensk is a fine example of his collaborations with skilled aquatint engravers and colourists, bringing together topographical accuracy with artistic charm.
Condition: Good for age. Light overall toning, minor handling marks to margins, and faint foxing in places. Original plate mark visible. Colours remain fresh and well-preserved.
Framing tips: A dark wood or mahogany frame with a cream or light beige archival mat will enhance the warm tones of the landscape and sky. A thin gilt fillet inside the mat could complement the historical nature of the piece.
Technique: Hand-coloured aquatint
Maker: R. Bowyer, London, 1814
