Drawing for book illustration: an old lady and a cabman

1817

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Romanticism Early 19th Century Genre Scene

Dominant colour

Drawing for book illustration: an old lady and a cabman is a 1817 by John Leech, a Romanticism work, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: John Leech
When & what style?: 1817 · Romanticism
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This sketch shows an old woman in a long dress and a cabman in a hat, standing close together. The woman’s face is soft but serious, while the cabman’s arm is raised as if he’s talking or gesturing. Behind them, a piano and a few vague shapes hint at a room, but the focus is on the two figures. The quick, loose lines suggest this was drawn fast—maybe while watching a scene unfold. The artist didn’t fuss over details, just captured the moment in a few strokes. If you like this sketchy style, look up John Leech.