Robert Adam: Neoclassical architect and designer
One of the most important British architects working in the Neoclassical style
Neoclassicism
Neoclassicism was a design style that emerged in Britain and France in the 1750s. It drew inspiration from the 'classical' art and culture of Ancient Greece and Rome – in particular, the archaeological discoveries at Herculaneum and Pompeii in Italy. It's popularity quickly spread as young European aristocrats returned home from the Grand Tour – a traditional and educational rite of passage – to their home countries with newly rediscovered Greco-Roman ideals.
Collection highlights
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Perfume burner, designed by James 'Athenian' Stuart, made by Anderson Diederich Nicolaus, about 1760, London, England -
Adelphi ceiling, designed by Robert Adam, made by David Adamson, about 1771, England -
Relief and tablet, sculpted by Thomas Banks, 1777 – 78, Britain -
Copy of the Portland Vase, by William Hackwood and Henry Webber, manufactured by Josiah Wedgwood's factory, about 1790, Staffordshire, England -
Armchair, designed by Robert Adam, made by Thomas Chippendale Sr, 1764 – 65, London, England -
Hot water jug, 1785 – 90, Sheffield, England -
Vase and cover, by Thomas Soare, manufactured by Derby Porcelain factory, about 1783 – 84, Derby, England -
Teapot, made by Andrew Fogelberg, engraved by James Tassie, 1778 – 79, London, England -
Design for a monument, designed by James 'Athenian' Stuart, by Thomas Scheemakers, 18th century, England -
Cup and cover, made by Josiah Wedgwood and Sons, about 1785, Staffordshire, England -
Door handle, designed by Sir William Chambers, 1776 – 80, London -
Table, designed by Sir William Chambers, made by Georg Haupt, 1769, London, England -
Design for a drawing room, by James Wyatt, about 1770 – 75, England -
Armchair, made by Seddon & Sons, about 1790, London, England
Features
Header image: Adelphi ceiling, designed by Robert Adam, about 1771, London. Museum no. W.43:1 to 5-1936. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London