Artwork

Ah! La petite Coquette

Ah! La petite Coquette, by Richard Doyle, 1824
Ah! La petite Coquette, by Richard Doyle, 1824

Ah! La petite Coquette is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Richard Doyle. It dates from 1824 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. Ah!

About this work

Overview

Ah! La petite Coquette is a drawing created by British illustrator Richard Doyle in 1824. It depicts a domestic scene with three female figures and a child in a cozy, furnished room.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing shows a serene interior with one woman attending to a table with a pitcher and bowl, another holding back a curtain, and a child peeking out from behind a door. The title suggests a playful, possibly teasing interaction, potentially involving the child's mischief.

Technique & Style

The work exhibits a lively, loose quality, indicative of a quick sketch. Doyle's execution conveys a sense of spontaneity and informality.

History & Provenance

Richard Doyle, a prominent Victorian-era illustrator, created this work. It is now part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, reflecting Doyle's significance in British art.

Context

Doyle's career included notable contributions to publications like *Punch* magazine, where he designed the inaugural issue's masthead and cover. This drawing aligns with his broader practice of capturing everyday and domestic themes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Richard Doyle

Artist

Richard Doyle

Richard "Dickie" Doyle (18 September 1824 – 10 December 1883) was a British illustrator of the Victorian era.