Design for a Mantelpiece
Classification
furniture
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of various donors and from Eleanor G. Hewitt Fund
Accession Number
1938-88-5294
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Robert Adam's *Design for a Mantelpiece*ca. 1765) exemplifies the elegant neoclassical style that defined British and interiors during the 18 century. As a leading figure of the Adam style—a refined synthesis of ancient Roman motifs Palladian symmetry, and delicate ornamentationAdam revolutionized domestic design. This drawing, likely a sketch for a chimneiece, captures his signature approach: graceful proportions, intricate motifs like urns, garlands, and swags, and a harmonious of functionality with opulence. Created at the peak of Adam's, when he and his brothers were grand country houses ...