Dark Academia
The Seven Ages of Man: Second Childishness
Robert Smirke
A poignant 18th-century narrative painting illustrating the final stage of life from Shakespeare's 'Seven Ages of Man'.
The Seven Ages of Man: The Justice
Robert Smirke
1799 · Oil Paint, Panel
This 1799 oil painting by Robert Smirke captures 'The Justice' from Shakespeare’s famous Seven Ages of Man monologue.
$238
For the selected configuration
From $129
6 frame sizes
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Made to order in ~2 business days · Free U.S. standard shipping (typically 5–8 business days after dispatch)
Where it works
A measured, grounding piece in a warmer tonal register — sits comfortably in a more formal setting.
- Often works in
- Library · Study · Office
- Placement
- Strong over sofas, beds, buffets, or wider open walls
- Walls
- Best where a lighter wall gives it room to show
- Color notes
- Deep burgundy, Rich brown
About the piece
Commissioned for the Boydell Shakespeare Gallery, this work by Robert Smirke illustrates the fifth stage of life from 'As You Like It.' The painting depicts the justice in his 'fair round belly,' embodying an age defined by social stature and stern authority. Smirke’s mastery of narrative genre painting is evident in the expressive characterizations and the rich, atmospheric lighting of the scholarly interior.
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