Pier Glass

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's and Prints department, *Pier Glass* by Robert William Hume (1850–1904) is a meticulous pen and ink drawing that captures the elegance of Victorian-era ornamental architecture. Created during Hume's lifetime, this work exemplifies the precision of 19th-century draftsmanship, likely serving as a design study for a pier glass—a tall, stately mirror traditionally placed between windows in grand drawing rooms to enhance light and grandeur. Pier glasses were coveted furnishings in opulent interiors of the mid-to-late 1800s, symbolizing wealth and refined taste amid the Industrial Revolution's prosperity. Hume's rendering highlights intricate details in frame and decoration, showcasing the era's fascination with elaborate moldings, gilding, and symmetry. As a piece in the Ornament & Architecture classification, it reflects how architects and designers used such drawings to plan lavish decorative elements. Acquired through the 1930 bequest of Jessie F. Hume—possibly a family connection—this artwork invites visitors to appreciate the artistry behind everyday luxury. Pen and ink's fine lines allow for exquisite texture and depth, making it a gem for those exploring the interplay of function, beauty, and historical domestic life.

About the Artist

Robert William Hume · 1816–1904

Robert William Hume (1816–1904) was a British artist and craftsman who contributed to the documentation of decorative arts and design in nineteenth-century Britain. Working during the Victorian era, Hume was part of a generation of artists and designers who combined artistic skill with antiquarian interests, producing detailed studies and records of historical objects, ornamental patterns, and arc...