Master William Page and Sir Hugh Evans 1821

Robert Smirke made this artwork in the late 18th or early 19th century with chalk or pastel on paper, materials often used for preparatory sketches. Smirke’s choice of medium provides insight into his artistic process. Chalk and pastel allowed for rapid sketching and immediate expression, capturing fleeting moments of inspiration. The softness of the materials lends itself to nuanced shading and subtle gradations of tone, enhancing the overall aesthetic. Also, the powdery nature of chalk and pastel would result in a delicate texture that evokes a sense of intimacy. Smirke used these materials and techniques to depict scenes from literature and history, which, in turn, were often reproduced as engravings for mass consumption. This intersection of artistic skill and market demand highlights the complex relationship between art, commerce, and society during the Georgian and Regency periods. The artwork blurs the lines between fine art and commercial craft, reflecting a shift in artistic practices driven by the demands of a growing consumer culture.