John Donowell facts for kids

John Donowell was a British architect and engraver who lived in the 1700s. He was active between 1753 and 1786. People thought he was as important as other famous architect-artists like Thomas Sandby and Thomas Malton during his time.

Donowell was known for showing his amazing artwork. He first showed his work in 1761 at the Free Society. Later, in the 1760s, he displayed his art at the Society of Artists. From 1778 to 1786, he also exhibited at the Royal Academy. Many of his drawings were turned into prints, and some were even coloured by hand.

John Donowell's Art and Drawings

John Donowell created many drawings of places. These are called topographical drawings. Most of his drawings showed scenes from London. For example, he drew the Grand Walk in Marylebone Gardens. This garden was a very popular and stylish place back then.

His detailed drawings help us see what London and other places looked like in the 1700s.

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  Ironmongers Hall with a view of Fenchurch Street, around 1749

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  An engraving of Chiswick House and its Avenue, from 1753

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  A view of the Orchestra with the Band of Music, the Grand Walk and more in Marybone Gardens. This hand-coloured print was made from Donowell's drawing in 1761.

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  East View of West Wycombe House, Buckinghamshire, around 1760

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  A view of Burlington's House at Chiswick from the Road, around 1763

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  A view of Burlington's Garden at Chiswick from the Steps in the Back, around 1763