Distinguished Amateurs no. II: The Art Critic

1880

George Du Maurier

Associated Names
George Du Maurier

Artist, British, 1834 - 1896

This image is a detailed line drawing of six people standing in a row, engaged in conversation or observation. The individuals are shown in full view. The first person on the left is a woman wearing a long gown and a coat with a high collar and long sleeves, with short hair style, holding her hands together. Next to her is another woman in an ornate dress and hat with feathers or similar embellishments, appearing friendly. The central figure is a man in a long coat, holding a hat against his hip, with curly hair falling around his shoulders. Adjacent to him is a woman in Victorian-style clothing with a decorative hat and veil, holding an umbrella. Near her is another woman in a long dress and a hat with flowers, holding up her dress train. Lastly, an older man stands in a dignified posture, wearing a long coat with a high collar, possibly with receding hair at the temples.

The background displays a wall with framed paintings, suggesting an art gallery or a well-appointed room. The shading and style imply depth and texture in the surroundings, with additional ornate furnishings like chairs visible, completing the environment without overt clutter.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink over graphite with scratching-out on wove paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of William B. O'Neal

  • Dimensions

    overall: 25.3 x 35.4 cm (9 15/16 x 13 15/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1995.52.215


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Thos. Agnew & Sons Ltd., London); purchased by William B. O'Neal, Charlottesville, VA, 1974-1994; gift to NGA, 1995.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

lower left in image in brown ink: DU MAURIER; below image in brown ink: Distinguished Amateurs. No II, The Art Critic / Prigsby (contemplating [ ]) vide legend enclosed; lower left in brown ink: Mch 13.80 / 20[?]; lower right in brown ink: 1/2 page / with small drawing / to go underneath; across top in graphite: (first words not deciphered) The head is most delectable ("most delectable" crossed out) distinctly divine! Indeed in all art, ancient or modern, I can find no head to compare to it, excepting perhaps / the "Ilyssus" of which it vaguely reminds me... / Chorus of maidens - Ah! yes - the head of the Ilyssus... (more legend and revisions across top and in right margin)

Wikidata ID

Q64571348

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