Artwork
Drawing for book illustration: an old lady and a cabman
Drawing for book illustration: an old lady and a cabman is a print by the Romanticist artist John Leech. It dates from 1817 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This print is based on a pencil drawing by John Leech, depicting an elderly woman and a cabman in a simple, expressive style.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing shows an old woman and a cabman standing together, their interaction captured in a moment of conversation or gesture. The scene is set against a vague background, with a piano and other indistinct shapes suggesting an indoor setting.
Technique & Style
The drawing's loose, rapid lines and lack of detailed rendering suggest it was created quickly, possibly from observation. The artist's economical use of strokes effectively conveys the scene and the figures' emotions.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Leech (29 August 1817 – 29 October 1864) was a British caricaturist and illustrator.
![Woman and Smaller Male Figure on Grand Stairway [recto], by Hubert Robert](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/hubert-robert--woman-and-smaller-male-figure-on-grand-stairway-recto--637e2104bb3633b6-w320.webp)