Artwork
Untitled
Untitled is a drawing by the Romanticist artist John Bacon. It dates from 1787 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This 1787 drawing by John Bacon is one of 178 designs conceived for potential monuments or sculptures. It depicts a tall, pointed tomb with a niche containing a female statue, accompanied by a kneeling child and dog.
Subject & Meaning
The subject appears to be a maternal figure, suggested by the woman holding a smaller figure, conveying themes of mourning, protection, or bereavement, common in memorial art of the period.
Technique & Style
Executed in black and white with selective shading, the drawing utilizes simple yet effective lines to achieve three-dimensionality, especially in the folds of clothing and tomb details. The tomb's sharp, dramatic silhouette reflects prevalent memorial design aesthetics of the late 18th century.
History & Provenance
Created in 1787 as part of a larger series of 178 designs by John Bacon for potential commissions. Currently part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, where similar works by the artist can be found.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Bacon worked in the late 1700s and left behind a single drawing in this collection titled *Untitled (1775-99)*.
