Design for a pier-glass from; A Miscellaneous Collection of Original Designs, made, and for the most part executed, during an extensive Practice of many years in the first line of his Profession, by John Linnell, Upholsterer Carver & Cabinet Maker. Selected from his Portfolios at his Decease, by C. H. Tatham Architect. AD 1800.
Drawing
late 18th century (made)
late 18th century (made)
| Artist/Maker | |
| Place of origin |
This design for a pier-glass by John Linnell combines militaristic (military) imagery with the stylistic features of the rococo. The rococo became popular during the first half of the 18th century, characterised by curved forms, asymmetry and naturalistic ornamentation. Within this design, Linnell has combined an abundant array of foliage and floral arrangements. The incorporation of dragons demonstrates Linnell’s imaginative use of Chinoiserie-inspired characters within his designs. Chinoiserie was the style inspired by art and design from China, Japan and other Asian countries and was extremely popular during the 18th century. Linnell frequently used chinoiserie features within his designs for pier-glasses to create fantastical effects, particularly when he combined this with rococo stylistic features.
The militaristic motifs such as the helmet and the shield suggest that Linnell may have created this design for a specific patron and these ornamentations may reflect the patron’s position. Pier-glasses such as this would have been placed within the important state rooms for the visitor to see such as state drawing rooms, galleries and dining rooms. Pier-glasses were a popular form of furnishing during the 18th century and would normally be placed on a wall in-between two windows.
The militaristic motifs such as the helmet and the shield suggest that Linnell may have created this design for a specific patron and these ornamentations may reflect the patron’s position. Pier-glasses such as this would have been placed within the important state rooms for the visitor to see such as state drawing rooms, galleries and dining rooms. Pier-glasses were a popular form of furnishing during the 18th century and would normally be placed on a wall in-between two windows.
Object details
| Categories | |
| Object type | |
| Title | Design for a pier-glass from; A Miscellaneous Collection of Original Designs, made, and for the most part executed, during an extensive Practice of many years in the first line of his Profession, by John Linnell, Upholsterer Carver & Cabinet Maker. Selected from his Portfolios at his Decease, by C. H. Tatham Architect. AD 1800. (series title) |
| Materials and techniques | pencil, pen and wash |
| Brief description | Design for a pier-glass in pen and ink and wash, from a volume of designs for furniture, interior decoration and architectural fittings, by John Linnell, Great Britain, late 18th century |
| Physical description | A design for a pier-glass composed from naturalistic and floral forms. At the top of the pier-glass is a military helmet either side of which are two dragons, their tails entwined into the frame. Beneath the dragons are two ram’s heads holding strings of floral arrangements in their mouths. At the bottom of the frame are an array of militaristic symbols such as a shield, an arrow and an axe, which are situated amongst naturalistic ornamentation. One of a set of designs for furniture, including chairs and state beds, interior decoration, including pier glasses, and architectural fittings including chimney pieces and doors. In a volume. |
| Dimensions |
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| Subjects depicted | |
| Summary | This design for a pier-glass by John Linnell combines militaristic (military) imagery with the stylistic features of the rococo. The rococo became popular during the first half of the 18th century, characterised by curved forms, asymmetry and naturalistic ornamentation. Within this design, Linnell has combined an abundant array of foliage and floral arrangements. The incorporation of dragons demonstrates Linnell’s imaginative use of Chinoiserie-inspired characters within his designs. Chinoiserie was the style inspired by art and design from China, Japan and other Asian countries and was extremely popular during the 18th century. Linnell frequently used chinoiserie features within his designs for pier-glasses to create fantastical effects, particularly when he combined this with rococo stylistic features. The militaristic motifs such as the helmet and the shield suggest that Linnell may have created this design for a specific patron and these ornamentations may reflect the patron’s position. Pier-glasses such as this would have been placed within the important state rooms for the visitor to see such as state drawing rooms, galleries and dining rooms. Pier-glasses were a popular form of furnishing during the 18th century and would normally be placed on a wall in-between two windows. |
| Bibliographic reference | Victoria and Albert Museum, Department of Engraving, Illustration and Design and Department of Paintings, Accessions 1929, London: Board of Education, 1930. |
| Collection | |
| Accession number | E.171-1929 |
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| Record created | June 30, 2009 |
| Record URL |
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