Robert Smirke
Sir Robert Smirke (1780-1867) was an English architect.
Smirke was a pioneer of using both concrete and cast iron
1867 Obituary.[1]
Sir Robert Smirke, the architect, died on the 18th inst., at the age of 87, having been born in the year 1780. His father was eminent artist, who in his day enjoyed considerable reputation as an historical painter. His two sons, Robert and Sydney, inheriting his love of art, achieved for themselves a yet higher distinction as architects. Robert studied for some time in the office of Sir John Soane, and subsequently spent several years in Italy, Sicily and Greece, visiting at intervals the principal cities of Europe.
He was elected Royal Academican in 1816, and in 1823 he was entrusted with the building of the British Museum, and shortly after with the new Post-office. Having been for many years architect to the old Board of Works, he was knighted in recognition of his services, when, in 1831, that Beard was constituted. For a long time he held the office of treasurer to the Royal Academy, but relinquished this appointment on going to reside in Cheltenham 1850; and a few years ago, finding his declining health materially interfering with the efficient discharge of the duties of a Royal Academician, he resigned its honours that, they might be conferred upon a younger and more active man.
See Also
Sources of Information
- ↑ Herts Guardian, Agricultural Journal, and General Advertiser - Saturday 27 April 1867