Title

Mr. Atkinson has kindly favoured' us with a copy of the second number of his views through Hobart Town.

Author

The Colonist

Details

The Colonist, 8 October 1833, page 2

Publication date

8 October 1833

Type

Publication Review

Language

English

Country of context

Australia

Abstract

Mr. Atkinson has kindly favoured' us with a copy of the second number of his views through Hobart Town. As delineations of the objects they are very creditable ; but as works of Art we can only say of them that we have seen-better drawings even in Van Diemen's Land. It appears to us that they are done with too much haste. An error of no inconsiderable magnitude appears in the view of Wellington Bridge, by the introduction of a crossed light which mars the effect. It is, how ever, the best plate of the whole, except the wrapper, which surpasses all that has been published, and convinces us that Mr. Atkinson could finish his ' views' in a far better style than he does, if he would only take time. As sketches conveying a tolerably correct idea of the places they purport to represent, we are of opinion that these views are a useful and interesting work; and we have made these remarks solely to induce Mr. Atkinson to fortify himself against criticism, which is inseparable from a candidate for public favor.' We are aware of the many difficulties he has to contend with, and we consider- that the Public should patronise his work'; it being the' first attempt at a publication of the kind in the Colony; but however much these considerations; may blunt the edge, or soften the asperity of criticism, they cannot sway the judgment. Mr. Atkinson must himself admit that ill-bestowed compliment is more mischievous than well rounded and. mild censure; we therefore have in this instance departed from the usual course pursued by the Colonial Press of 'praising up' every thing which is done in the Colony, solely because we hope for and expect from this artist much better things, as there is no comparison between the neatly touched Gothic ruin on the wrapper, and hasty scumbling sketches which it covers. We certainly wish to see this work, which is in its nature highly interesting, improve and prosper: As Mr. Atkinson, is almost a stranger among us, it may be of service to direct him in the choice of his subjects; we therefore by way of a hint would recommend him to take a peep at Mount: Wellington from the Battery Hill, New Town, and the river from Mount George in the Government Domain. The Harbour from Knock-lofty Hill - Providence Valley from the same. The Government Garden from the River, and Sandy Bay from the Barrack Hill. We think he would find these views repay the trouble of climbing the hills in question.

['The Colonist', 8 October 1833, page 3].

Web address

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/201158228

Last Updated

24 May 2026