THOMAS BEWICK. 



21 I 



work, thinking it by the master, will be grievously disappointed. There are 

 four blocks by Robert, and all are of the most elementary description. They 

 are not much worse in execution than a few of Thomas Bewick's and some of 

 John Bewick's early works ; but there is a total lack of genius, or original 

 feeling, that is almost amazing, especially considering the training Robert 

 had, or at least might have had — for there is no evidence to show that he 

 took advantage of his position. These cuts display how far the son halted 

 after the father's genius. In all there is scarcely a redeeming quality, 

 though, in a feeble way, the father's wonderful power of rendering foliage is 

 imitated in certain parts of the designs. The best block that Robert did 

 is the engraving of " Bewick's Swan," in the 1832 and 1847 editions of the 

 Birds, this exhibiting some artistic power. The copper-plates of Bywell Bay, 

 on the Tyne, a separately printed engraving, and the Maigre, in the 1862 

 Memoir, also contain much conscientious work ; the seaside view at page 323 

 of the Memoir is likewise by Robert, and is one of his best productions. 



After his father's death in 1828 Robert took charge of the business, 

 publishing the 1832 and 1847 editions of the Birds. He died on July 27th, 

 1849, an d was buried at Ovingham. 



Edwin and Angelina. Goldsmith's Poems, 1812 

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