Artwork

Sketch of Mounted Hussar

Sketch of Mounted Hussar, by George Cruikshank, ink, 1835
Sketch of Mounted Hussar, by George Cruikshank, ink, 1835

Sketch of Mounted Hussar is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist George Cruikshank. It dates from 1835 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Sketch of Mounted Hussar is a drawing by George Cruikshank, created in 1835. The work combines pen and ink with red, blue, and brown wash on two overlapped, joined sheets originally from a letter.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a mounted hussar, reflecting Cruikshank's incorporation of military themes into his artwork. While known for satire, this piece focuses on expressive draftsmanship rather than overt social commentary.

Technique & Style

Cruikshank's characteristic graphic style is evident in the quick, expressive lines of the pen and ink work. The addition of red, blue, and brown wash enhances the drawing without overpowering the initial sketchwork.

History & Provenance

Created in 1835, the drawing's provenance is not detailed here, though its materials (repurposed letter sheets) offer insight into Cruikshank's resourcefulness.

Context

Part of Cruikshank's broader oeuvre, this drawing sits alongside his more famous satirical prints and book illustrations, notably those for Charles Dickens, though it is more restrained in tone.

Legacy

This sketch contributes to Cruikshank's legacy as a versatile artist, highlighting his draftsmanship skills beyond his satirical work, and earning him comparisons to William Hogarth.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Cruikshank

Artist

George Cruikshank

George Cruikshank or Cruickshank ( KRUUK-shank; 27 September 1792 – 1 February 1878) was a British caricaturist and book illustrator, praised as the "modern Hogarth" during his life.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.