Artwork

London - No.16

London - No.16, by Douglas Portway, 1952
London - No.16, by Douglas Portway, 1952

London - No.16 is a drawing by Douglas Portway. It dates from 1952 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. London - No.

About this work

Overview

London - No.16 is a 1952 black-and-white drawing by Douglas Portway, depicting a London street scene.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing captures everyday life in a busy London street, with pedestrians walking along a narrow road lined with buildings, some carrying bags or umbrellas, set against a dark, hazy sky.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of tight, layered lines creates a sense of depth and movement, incorporating numerous small details to convey the atmosphere of the scene.

History & Provenance

The drawing was exhibited at the Drian Galleries in 1962 as part of a Douglas Portway exhibition, where it was listed as number 26.

Artist & collection

Artist

Douglas Portway

Douglas Portway drew London’s postwar streets in ink and pencil, focusing on quiet corners and lone figures.