The Life of John Thomas Smith
John Thomas Smith, also known as Antiquity Smith, was an English painter, engraver, and antiquarian. Born in the back of a Hackney carriage on 23 June 1766, he was the son of Nathaniel Smith, a sculptor and later a printseller. While he initially attempted to train as a sculptor under Joseph Nollekens, he eventually studied with John Keyse Sherwin and at the Royal Academy. After three years, he transitioned to living off his drawing skills, moving away from topographical drawing and acting ambitions to compile Antiquities of London and its Environs.
Artistic Contributions and Career
Smith served as the Keeper of the Prints department at the British Museum starting in September 1816. His notable works include:
- Antiquities of Westminster (1807), which featured drawings of antiquities inspired by paintings found during work on the Houses of Parliament.
- The Streets of London: Anecdotes of Their More Celebrated Residents (1815).
- Vagabondiana, or Anecdotes of Mendicant Wanderers through the Streets of London (1817).
- Nollekens and His Times (1828), a biography noted for its "malicious candour."
He also published Remarks on Rural Scenery in 1797, which contains what appears to be the earliest reference to the compositional "rule of thirds." Smith died on 8 March 1833.
Questions & Answers
What are the birthplace and birth year of John Thomas Smith?
John Thomas Smith was born in London in 1766.
What are the birth city and country of John Thomas Smith?
John Thomas Smith was born in London, in United Kingdom.
In which movements did John Thomas Smith work?
John Thomas Smith's works can be browsed by movement on the artist's All Movements page.
What aliases or alternate names does John Thomas Smith have?
John Thomas Smith is also known as Antiquity Smith, Jonathan Thomas Smith, JT, JTS, J.T. Smith.
