Artwork

John Cowper, an Edinburgh beggar

John Cowper, an Edinburgh beggar, by William Home Lizars, oil, 1833
John Cowper, an Edinburgh beggar, by William Home Lizars, oil, 1833

John Cowper, an Edinburgh beggar is an oil painting by William Home Lizars. It dates from 1833 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

John Cowper, an Edinburgh beggar is an oil painting created around 1833 by William Home Lizars. It is part of the Fitzwilliam Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a man dressed in a long, brown coat and hat, with a pipe in his right hand and a bag suspended from a strap across his chest. His detailed face conveys a serious expression.

Technique & Style

The artist skillfully rendered the subject's facial features and hands, capturing the subtleties of everyday life. The use of chiaroscuro, a technique that utilizes strong contrasts between light and dark, is evident in the painting.

Artist & collection

Artist

William Home Lizars

William Home Lizars (1788–1859) was an artist, born in Edinburgh.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Fitzwilliam Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.