Artwork

Two Children in the Snow

Two Children in the Snow, by George Du Maurier, ink, 1865
Two Children in the Snow, by George Du Maurier, ink, 1865

Two Children in the Snow is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist George Du Maurier. It dates from 1865 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower left in black ink: DM

About this work

Overview

George du Maurier’s drawing Two Children in the Snow, executed in 1865, depicts a winter scene centred on two young figures. Rendered on wove paper, the work measures a modest size typical of intimate studies and presents a quiet moment of childhood amid a snowy landscape.

Technique & Style

The artist employed a combination of graphite underdrawing and pen‑filled black ink, then enhanced the surface by scraping away portions of the ink to reveal highlights, a process known as scratching‑out. This method creates delicate contrasts and texture, aligning the piece with the Romantic era’s emphasis on atmosphere and emotional nuance.

Context

Created during the mid‑nineteenth century, the drawing reflects Romanticism’s fascination with nature, childhood innocence, and the sublime qualities of weather. Du Maurier, better known for his illustrations and later novels, applied the movement’s sensibilities to a modest, observational work that captures a fleeting, personal scene rather than grand historical narrative.

Greenwich Park
Greenwich Park, James McNeill Whistler

Artist & collection

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

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Two Children in the Snow?

Two Children in the Snow was painted by George Du Maurier in 1865.

Where can I see Two Children in the Snow?

Two Children in the Snow is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Two Children in the Snow?

Two Children in the Snow is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Two Children in the Snow?

Museum-quality prints of Two Children in the Snow are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.