What movement is Preliminary drawing for the group caricature, 'The Fraserians'?

Preliminary drawing for the group caricature, 'The Fraserians' is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Preliminary drawing for the group caricature, 'The Fraserians'

Preliminary drawing for the group caricature, 'The Fraserians' is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Daniel Maclise. It dates from 1835 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This 1835 preliminary drawing by Daniel Maclise sketches out a lively gathering of contributors to Fraser's Magazine, later developed into a published group caricature.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts 'the Fraserians' around their publisher's table, conveying the energetic atmosphere of a social meeting among the magazine's contributors, with individuals engaged in conversation, holding beverages, or observing from the back.

Technique & Style

Characterized by quick, sketchy lines, the work prioritizes capturing the dynamic bustle of the scene over precise detail, with loose renderings of faces and attire.

History & Provenance

Created in 1835 as a preparatory work for the January issue of Fraser's Magazine, it directly informed the final published group caricature, 'The Fraserians'.

Context

Reflects the social and literary circles of early 19th-century British publishing, specifically the camaraderie among Fraser's Magazine contributors.

Legacy

Serves as an illustrative precursor to the published caricature, offering insight into Maclise's creative process and the magazine's cultural significance.

Artist & collection

Artist

Daniel Maclise

Daniel Maclise (25 January 1806 – 25 April 1870) was an Irish history painter, literary and portrait painter, and illustrator, who worked for most of his life in London, England.