Artwork

Hasan rejoins his wife

Hasan rejoins his wife, by Batten, 1894
Hasan rejoins his wife, by Batten, 1894

Hasan rejoins his wife is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Batten. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Hasan rejoins his wife is a pen and ink drawing created in 1894 to illustrate The Book of Wonder Voyages, published by David Nutt in 1896. The piece depicts an intimate domestic scene.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows a reunion between Hasan and his wife in a bedroom. The woman leans against Hasan, who sits on the bed holding a hat, conveying a sense of tender reconnection. Surrounding elements—a chair, table with lamp, and a door with a key—suggest a private, everyday setting.

Technique & Style

The artist employed pen and ink techniques, notably cross-hatching, to achieve detailed shadows and textures. This method involves layering small lines to build depth, evident in the dark, intricate rendering of the bedroom scene.

History & Provenance

Originally created in 1894 for The Book of Wonder Voyages, the drawing was used in the book’s 1896 publication by David Nutt. Its current location or subsequent ownership history is not provided.

Artist & collection

Artist

Batten

She drew at night by candlelight, her nib scratching on paper until her fingers ached.