Artwork

A Young Girl Seated, [perhaps Annie Susan, known as Poppie, the daughter of the artist]

A Young Girl Seated, [perhaps Annie Susan, known as Poppie, the daughter of the artist] is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist Joseph Clark. It dates from 1834 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This watercolour depicts a young girl seated, identified by some scholars as Annie Susan, nicknamed Poppie, the artist’s daughter.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour depicts a young girl seated, identified by some scholars as Annie Susan, nicknamed Poppie, the artist’s daughter. Executed in a delicate wash, the work captures a moment of quiet repose, characteristic of the artist’s focus on child subjects during the Victorian era.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait presents a domestic scene, emphasizing the innocence and individuality of the child. By choosing his own daughter as the model, the artist underscores personal affection and the broader Victorian fascination with childhood as a symbol of purity and moral development.

Technique & Style

Prior to committing to oil, the artist produced precise sketches and expressive watercolours, a practice evident in this piece. The medium allows for translucent layers and fine detail, highlighting the sitter’s features while maintaining a soft, atmospheric quality typical of his preparatory works.

History & Provenance

The work belongs to the artist’s early oeuvre, created before his later oil paintings of children gained public attention at the Royal Academy. Its provenance traces back to the artist’s family collection, reflecting the common practice of using relatives as models for studies.

Artist & collection

Artist

Joseph Clark

Joseph Clark painted small, delicate watercolors in the 1800s. His works include *A Young Girl Seated* (maybe his daughter “Poppie” at age 100 in 1926) and a sketch for *Private and Confidential*, both in soft washes.…