Artwork
Beaufort House, Chelsea

Beaufort House, Chelsea is a print by the Baroque artist Johannes Kip. It dates from 1708 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 2020.163
- Credit line
- Nancy F. and Joseph P. Keithley Collection Gift
About this work
Overview
Beaufort House, Chelsea is a detailed print depicting the 16th-century residence and its formal gardens, originally part of the Britannia Illustrata, a comprehensive publication showcasing England's noble seats.
Subject & Meaning
The print specifically portrays Beaufort House, a historically significant dwelling once occupied by Sir Thomas More, highlighting its architectural features and gardens before its demolition in 1740.
Technique & Style
Characterized by sharp lines and a bird's-eye view, the print reflects the meticulous topographical style of its Dutch creators, who, despite residing in England, maintained a distinctly precise Dutch artistic approach.
History & Provenance
Created by two Dutch artists based in England for the Britannia Illustrata, the print predates the house's 1740 demolition, serving as a valuable historical record of the structure and its surroundings.
Context
Part of a broader trend of Dutch artists producing detailed, bird's-eye views (also seen in Netherlands subjects), this work aligns with the period's interest in documenting noble estates and geography.
Artist & collection
Artist
Johannes "Jan" Kip (1652/53 in Amsterdam – 1722 in Westminster) was a Dutch draftsman, engraver and print dealer. Together with Leonard Knyff, he made a speciality of engraved views of English country houses.













