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Shakespeare Monument in Church at Stratford-on-Avon

George Vertue

1720

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque 18th Century

Dominant colour

Shakespeare Monument in Church at Stratford-on-Avon is a 1720 ink by George Vertue, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: George Vertue
When & what style?: 1720 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This engraving shows a man sitting in a carved niche, writing at a desk. Above him is a shield with swirling designs, and two small figures stand on either side holding objects. A skull sits on the ledge above the shield. The whole scene is framed like a tomb, with Latin words carved below. The skull and tomb-like frame hint this might be a memorial for someone important. The artist used fine lines to create shadows and depth, which was a common trick in this style. Next, look up engraving to see how artists like this made detailed prints.