Classic London Art Print – The Old Curiosity Shop
Prices From:
$24.00
Product Styles
Not mass produced – All prints and other physical items are made individually for your order.
About This Image
For someone from the states, this piece of classic London architecture seems impossibly old and by proxy of great importance. And yet this little shop on Portsmouth Street is primarily considered of interest only because of its literary connection to Charles Dickens. Dickens is of course the great English author of the 19th century.
Predictably, I first laid eyes on The Old Curiosity Shop years ago on a classic London walking tour. I don’t remember what was said about the landmark, but I’ll never forget how it as dwarfed by the larger, newer, brick buildings that surrounded it. It felt like a little island of classic London marooned in the midst of a sea of the modern. That made as much of an impression on me as the possible connection to Charles Dickens.
You only realize where this little shop really rates in the pantheon of ancient architecture in Britain when you start trying to discover something as simple as what architectural style it represents. My first guess was that the simple timber framed building was probably medieval in style even though it was built somewhat after that period of history. Of course, with epochs, there are typically no concrete dividing lines. And for something as simple as this little shop, it was probably not afforded cutting edge architecture. So, I’m sticking with my assumption it falls in line with the medieval period in style unless someone can offer a stronger argument.
In fact, this classic London landmark did start out life rather humbly. It was built circa 1567 from re-used timbers of old sailing ships and. It functioned as a dairy and was a gift from King Charles II to one of his mistresses. The story may be interesting but at the end of the day, it was never a palace. And the people who saw it newly built in the 16th century probably never envisioned this little building would still be standing in the 21st century, did they?
There’s some question whether or not Charles Dickens really envisioned this particular shop as the antique shop central in his novel, The Old Curiosity Shop. Soon after the novel was published, however, the owner of the shop proclaimed it was in fact the Old Curiosity Shop and it has been regarded as such for well over a century now. Whether true or not, it is one of the buildings that stood in Dickens’ time. In fact, this little shop has stood through the Great Fire of London in 1666, the blitz of World War II, and through the contemporary redevelopment of Westminster and Holborn. I think that certainly rates it now as a landmark piece of Classic London if nothing else does!
When I was working on this particular classic London artwork, I wanted an element that conveyed some sense of the passing years, not just the contrast of the old and new architecture but something else central to the identity of London. And for me, that character is the weather itself. I have always regarded the rain as a part of London. Granted usually my day to investigate galleries and museums, but when I think of walking in the rain in London, it’s like I’m there again. And how many, many times must the rain have fallen on the Old Curiosity Shop in the centuries that this piece of classic London has stood?
Does this remind you of a classic day spent in London? Or maybe it speaks to the side of you that loves Dickens and classic English literature? I would love for you to take a moment to share what speaks to you most in this London art print?
Art Print – Product Information
Elevate your home or office decor with a high-quality, custom-produced art print. Each print is individually made to order on premium, acid-free paper and printed with archival inks, ensuring vibrant, long-lasting color that will remain beautiful for years.
Every art print includes a 1″ white border, which is added to the overall size. This extra border on each side makes it easy to mat and frame your artwork for a polished, professional look. Optional matting and framing are also available for added convenience.
Prints without framing will be carefully rolled and packaged in a durable cardboard tube or triangular mailing box to ensure safe delivery. Framed prints will be shipped in a flat, secure box.
Where To Buy
My artwork is available as prints through a selection of trusted partner platforms. In some cases, a piece may only be available on one site, which serves as my primary platform. For more details about the features and options each partner offers, click here to learn more (link opens in a new tab).
If you’re interested in purchasing this piece through a specific partner and don’t see it listed, feel free to message me to check on availability. I’ll be happy to assist.
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I’m here to answer any questions you may have, help you find the perfect print, or discuss any custom touches that might make your purchase even more personal.
I believe in treating my customers the way I’d want to be treated, with authentic concern and attention. Whether you have product questions before your purchase or seeking another subject, I’m here to help you however I can.
Art has been my passion and my livelihood for almost 20 years. I’m grateful for every person who chooses to bring my work into their space or gives it as a truly personal gift. Please do let me know how I can help make your experience a great one!
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