George Cruikshank (British 1792-1878)

Artist: George Cruikshank (British 1792-1878)
Title: Caricature Studies
Medium: Pen, ink and pencil on paper
Mat Size: Height 28 cm x Width 31 cm
Image Size: Height 11 cm x Width 15.5 cm
Condition: The work is in fair condition, although images are still strong. Some foxing as well as folds in paper, the drawing has been attached to board by its edges only. The drawing is matted in an acid free cream matt with acid free foam core backing.
Provenance: Private Collection Sydney

About: These pen, ink and pencil on paper studies are a lovely example of the working drawings of one of Britains most revered caricaturists and book illustrators. The Sketch contains several figurative studies that would of most likely have had elements being transcribed into Cruikshank's finished works at later date. Along with the drawings there are several inscriptions made in ink including a reference to the St Martin's Lane Academy, which was a precursor of the Royal Academy. Organised in 1735 by William Hogarth, from the circle of artists and designers who gathered at Slaughter's Coffee House at the upper end of St Martin's Lane, London.

George Cruikshank was praised as the "Modern Hogarth" during his life. His book illustrations for his friend Charles Dickens, and many other authors, reached an International audience and subsequently helped in his notoriety as one of the most important and collectable satirists of the 19th century.