Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by Maria Cosway, 1784
Untitled, by Maria Cosway, 1784

Untitled is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Maria Cosway. It dates from 1784 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1784 drawing by Maria Cosway is a pen and wash work featuring three figures in a tense, dynamic pose. The artist's loose, expressive strokes convey a sense of urgency and emotional intensity.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts a semi-nude figure kneeling, restrained by another, possibly representing Prometheus chained to a rock. The composition blends classical idealism with dramatic tension, drawing on mythological imagery.

Technique & Style

Cosway employed flowing lines and layered strokes to capture movement and emotion. The use of cross-hatching builds up shadows, adding depth to the figures. The style is reminiscent of Henry Fuseli and John Flaxman, known for their expressive mythological imagery.

Hercules, in his death throes, hurling Lichas into the sea
Hercules, in his death throes, hurling Lichas into the sea, Giuseppe Cammarano

Artist & collection

Artist

Maria Cosway

Maria Cosway made delicate drawings of faces and figures in the late 1700s, working mostly in pencil and chalk.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Untitled?

Untitled was painted by Maria Cosway in 1784.

Where can I see Untitled?

Untitled is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Untitled?

Untitled is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Untitled?

Museum-quality prints of Untitled are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.