Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Frederick Victor Poole, 1901
Untitled, by Frederick Victor Poole, 1901

Untitled is a drawing by Frederick Victor Poole. It dates from 1901 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. A pen-and-ink drawing dated 1901, signed by F.

About this work

Overview

A pen-and-ink drawing dated 1901, signed by F.V. Poole, depicts a sequence of scenes from the Adelphi Theatre production of Little Hans Anderson. The work was intended for reproduction in an illustrated periodical, likely The Penny Illustrated Paper, and forms part of a group of theatrical sketches commissioned for magazine publication.

Subject & Meaning

The illustration captures key moments of the stage performance, offering a visual narrative of the play’s action and characters. By presenting multiple scenes within a single sheet, it serves both as a record of the production and as a means to convey the story to readers who could not attend the performance.

Technique & Style

Executed in pen and ink, the drawing employs precise line work and shading to suggest depth and movement. Poole’s approach balances detailed figure rendering with economical strokes, characteristic of early‑20th‑century newspaper illustration where clarity and reproducibility were paramount.

History & Provenance

The sketch was among several theatrical drawings commissioned from contemporary artists for inclusion in illustrated magazines. In 1914, Sir William James Ingram donated the entire collection, including this piece, to the museum, where it remains part of the institution’s holdings.

Context

At the turn of the century, illustrated newspapers and magazines played a vital role in disseminating cultural events to a broad audience. The Adelphi Theatre, a prominent London venue, frequently featured in such publications, and artists like Poole were engaged to create visual reports of current productions.

Artist & collection