Artwork
Drawing of Eileen Agar when a student in 1922
Drawing of Eileen Agar when a student in 1922 is a drawing by Leon Underwood. It dates from 1922 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Leon Underwood’s 1922 drawing captures a young Eileen Agar, then a student, in a brief, informal study. Rendered on warm-toned paper, the work presents a side‑turned head and shoulder, rendered with loose, gestural lines that convey immediacy. The composition is modest in scale, focusing on the sitter’s profile and expression without elaborate background or detail.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Agar with short, curly hair and a composed, serious expression, suggesting a moment of quiet concentration. As an early representation of a future avant‑garde artist, the drawing offers insight into her youthful demeanor and the informal, observational nature of Underwood’s approach to capturing a fellow emerging creative.
Technique & Style
Underwood employs a rapid, sketch‑like technique, using soft pink and brown tones to model form. The drawing features cross‑hatching and varied line weight to suggest volume, while portions of the dress collar remain unfinished, emphasizing the work’s study‑like character. The overall effect is a fluid, spontaneous rendering rather than a polished finished piece.
History & Provenance
Created in 1922 while both artists were at art school, the drawing entered the Victoria and Albert Museum’s collection, where it is conserved as part of their holdings of early 20th‑century British drawings. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s interest in documenting the formative years of notable British artists.
Artist & collection
Artist
George Claude Leon Underwood (25 December 1890 – 9 October 1975) was a British artist, although primarily known as a sculptor, printmaker and painter, he was also an influential teacher and promotor of African art.
