Artwork

"Taking the Air" in Hyde Park [verso]

"Taking the Air" in Hyde Park [verso], by George Cruikshank, ink, 1865
"Taking the Air" in Hyde Park [verso], by George Cruikshank, ink, 1865

"Taking the Air" in Hyde Park [verso] is an ink drawing by the Impressionist artist George Cruikshank. It dates from 1865 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Taking the Air in Hyde Park (verso) is a 1865 drawing by George Cruikshank, executed in pen and brown ink with brown wash over graphite on wove paper. It captures a lively scene in Hyde Park, conveying a sense of joy and spontaneity.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a group of formally dressed individuals in Hyde Park, with a central figure—a woman—shown in mid-air, her skirt lifted to reveal petticoats. Onlookers watch with interest, suggesting a moment of unexpected, carefree amusement.

Technique & Style

Cruikshank's characteristic graphic style is evident in the use of pen, brown ink, and brown wash, which imbues the scene with dynamic movement and energy. The technique enhances the overall sense of lively spontaneity.

History & Provenance

Created in 1865 by George Cruikshank, a renowned British caricaturist and illustrator (often likened to Hogarth), known for satirical works and collaborations with Charles Dickens. Specific provenance details for this work are not provided.

Context

Reflecting mid-19th-century British social life, the drawing highlights the contrast between formal attire and spontaneous behavior in a public, upscale setting like Hyde Park.

Legacy

As part of Cruikshank's oeuvre, the drawing contributes to his legacy as a chronicler of Victorian life and manners, though its individual impact within his broader body of work is not specified.

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.