This painting shows an idealised view of the Parthenon Marbles in the Temporary Elgin Room at the Museum in 1819, with portraits of staff, a trustee and visitors. The room was designed by the Museum's architect, Robert Smirke, for the display of the sculptures brought from Athens by Lord Elgin, purchased by the Government and deposited in the British Museum in 1816. Archibald Archerc.1791 - 1848. Trustees of the British Museum.