Specimens of Ancient Sculpture and Painting

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Dominant colour

Specimens of Ancient Sculpture and Painting is a 1 by Unknown, a Romanticism work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: Unknown
When & what style?: 1 · Romanticism
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This drawing shows a crowned figure in rich robes, holding a book and a small object like a flower or key. The background is packed with tiny, detailed patterns—leaves, flowers, and swirling designs—while smaller figures peek out from the edges. Gold, green, and red colors stand out against a dark, textured curtain. The tiny figures around the edges look like they’re part of a larger, lost painting. The crown and book suggest this person was important, maybe a king or prince. If you like this style, check out the Victoria and Albert Museum.

The story of this work

Overview

An illustration from John Carter's *Specimens of Ancient Sculpture and Painting* depicts a painted depiction of Arthur, Prince of Wales, son of Henry VII, as seen in the North window of the Priory Church of Great Malvern, Worcestershire. The image is part of a series published between 1780 and 1794.

Read the full account in the museum source.