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The Fiddling Beggar

William Sidney Mount

1853

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

Impressionism Realism Early 19th Century

Dominant colour

The Fiddling Beggar is a 1853 by William Sidney Mount, a Impressionism work, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.

Who painted this?: William Sidney Mount
When & what style?: 1853 · Impressionism
Where can I see it?: Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

This sketch shows a person playing a fiddle while sitting on a stool. They’re wearing a loose shirt, pants, and a hat, and their posture looks relaxed but focused. The lines are quick and rough, like the artist drew fast to catch the movement. The drawing feels lively, almost like a snapshot of a moment. The artist focused on the person’s hands and the instrument, making them the clear center of the scene. Next, look up William Sidney Mount to see more of his quick, everyday scenes.