Who painted A Squirrel and a Crow?

A Squirrel and a Crow was painted by Arthur Rackham in 1913.

Where can I see A Squirrel and a Crow?

A Squirrel and a Crow is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

A Squirrel and a Crow

Arthur Rackham , 1913

A Squirrel and a Crow is a drawing by Arthur Rackham. It dates from 1913 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The squirrel, mid-leap, grips a branch with its paws while the crow clings awkwardly below, its feathers ruffled.

This sketch shows a squirrel and a crow tangled in branches. The squirrel, mid-leap, grips a branch with its paws while the crow clings awkwardly below, its feathers ruffled. Behind them, a faint landscape of trees and hills stretches out, barely defined.

The crow’s beak is open, as if it’s calling out. The artist used quick, loose lines to sketch the animals, making them look almost alive.

Next, check out *Arthur Rackham (British, 1867–1939)* for more of his whimsical animal drawings.

Overview

A Squirrel and a Crow is a 1913 drawing by Arthur Rackham, a prominent English artist of the Golden Age of British book illustration. The work features a dynamic scene of a squirrel and a crow entangled in branches, characterized by expressive, loose lines and subtle watercolour accents.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a moment of interaction between a squirrel, shown in mid-leap with paws gripping a branch, and a crow clinging awkwardly below with ruffled feathers and an open beak, suggesting a call. The specific narrative or symbolic intent behind the interaction is left ambiguous, inviting interpretation.

Technique & Style

Rackham employed his signature technique of combining quick, expressive pen and ink lines with watercolour. The animals are rendered with lively, spontaneous strokes, while the background landscape of trees and hills remains faint and understated, focusing attention on the central figures.

History & Provenance

Created in 1913, A Squirrel and a Crow is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection, reflecting Rackham’s established reputation during the period.

Context

This work exemplifies Rackham’s evolution from journalistic illustration to book art, showcasing his ability to capture whimsical, naturalistic moments. It aligns with the whimsical animal themes prevalent in his oeuvre.

Legacy

A Squirrel and a Crow contributes to Rackham’s legacy as a leading illustrator of his era, known for endearing, dynamically illustrated animal subjects that have endured in popularity.