The Peep Show
1792
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1792
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
The Peep Show is a 1792 ink by Thomas Rowlandson, a Romanticism work, held at National Gallery of Art.
This sketch shows a crowd gathered around a small wooden box with a peephole. A flag waves above it, and people of all ages—men, women, and children—lean in to look inside. One man carries a big bundle on his head, while others chat or stare at the box. The artist used loose, quick lines to capture movement and curiosity. The scene feels lively, almost like a street fair or a public event. Check out Rowlandson, Thomas for more sketches like this.
