Imogen at the cave of Belarius [graphic] / [Charles Ryley].

[late 18th century]

2 items in 1 vol. : ink wash.

paper

Artist: Artist identification is taken from the label on an engraving that appears to have been done after these drawings. Ryley was a pupil of J.H. Mortimer and entered the R.A. schools in 1769. He exhibited R.A. from 1778-1798, mostly classical, biblical and literary subjects. He is noted as a painter of small literary histories, a decorator and an illustrator. His name is sometimes found Riley, particularly on engravings.

Drawings are drawn on oval pieces of paper. Both drawings illustrate the same scene and are quite similar though the second one appears to be a more finished sketch. Neither are signed.

History: Design was engraved by Issac Taylor for Charles Taylor's work The Picturesque Beauties of Shakespeare, published London, 1783-1787. The published work consists of engravings of Shakespeare scenes done from the drawings of Smirke, Stothard and Ryley. The Folger has several copies of the published work (ART Vol. f41) along with a copy of the individual engraving in the ART File (s528c3 no.34) The separate engraving is dated Jan. 10, 1786.

Provenance: Items are inlaid before p.303 of the printed text in volume 20 of a 21 volume extra illustrated copy of the 1857 edition of Shakespeare's Works, edited by Dyce and formerly owned by Robert Hoe. For complete provenance information see record for Harding, Silvester. Dr. Farmer.

Published Work: Taylor Charles. The picturesque beauties of Shakespeare ... [1783-1787].

Subject: Drawing illustrates Act III, Sc.6 of Shakespeare's Cymbeline, Imogen at the cave of Belarius. 'Imogen. Good Masters, harm me not ... here's money for my meat'.

This record contains unverified data from old cards and may contain incorrect or incomplete text. Please consult Curator for assistance.

Great Britain -- England.

ART Vol. a34 (Vol.20 before p.303)