Design for a Lighthouse
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council
Accession Number
1921-6-293-6
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
This print, titled Design for a Lighthouse, was created by the French artist A. Le Canu, who was active from 1746 to 1768. Dating to 1760–75, it captures an 18th-century vision for a maritime structure at a time when such designs blended practical engineering with artistic presentation. Classified as a print, the work would have allowed the concept to be reproduced and shared among architects, officials, and patrons interested in improving navigation and coastal safety. Lighthouses held growing importance during this era of expanding trade and exploration, serving as both functional beacons a...