Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by John Burley Waring in 1840.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Untitled?

Untitled is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Untitled

John Burley Waring , 1840

Untitled is a drawing by the Romanticist artist John Burley Waring. It dates from 1840 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This untitled record drawing is one of 124 works by John Burley Waring created in 1840, characterized by its depiction of a woman in a bright blue robe with a baby, surrounded by four kneeling winged figures against a simplistic sky backdrop.

Subject & Meaning

The subject features a serene maternal figure with a baby, observed by gentle, prayer-like winged beings. The composition's symbolism suggests a devotional or religious theme, potentially inspired by European art and stained-glass window aesthetics.

Technique & Style

Executed in a style reminiscent of stained-glass windows, the drawing employs flat, bold colors and soft, gentle facial expressions. The use of a gold stripe on the robe and a red-and-yellow sash adds to the piece's decorative, non-realistic quality.

History & Provenance

Part of a larger collection of over 2,300 drawings in 17 portfolios, primarily in watercolour, this work is one of eight sketches originally illustrating the artist’s poetry. Its current location is not specified, but similar pieces can be found at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Context

Created in 1840, this drawing reflects Waring's interest in European art institutions' figures, costumes, paintings, and sculptures, synthesizing these influences into a unique, illustrative style.