Study for 'Daedalus and Icarus': Composition

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Drawing details

Title: Study for 'Daedalus and Icarus': Composition
Date: c.1868
Media: Black and white chalk on blue paper
Dimensions: 24.2 x 20.5 cm
Location: Leighton House Museum
Picture credit: Leighton House Museum, The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
Reference number: LHO/D/0497
Inscriptions: Inscribed lower right "Daedalus & Icarus" in pencil. Inscribed on reverse, centre "307" encircled, in pencil. Inscribed on reverse, centre "E84" encircled, in pencil. Inscribed on reverse, centre "547[?]" encircled, in blue ink, partially removed by

Description

Study for the composition of the painting 'Daedalus and Icarus' (c.1869, private collection). The composition is similar to the finished painting, although the right arm of Icarus is not held high, but rests over the shoulder of Daedalus. Also the head of Icarus is not turned as far to the right. 

Provenance

Bequeathed by the artist to his sisters, Mrs. Augusta Matthews (n+e Augusta Neunburg Leighton, 1835-1919) and Mrs. Alexandra Orr (n+e Alexandra Leighton, 1828-1903); purchased by the Fine Art Society in 1896; collection of Leighton House Museum 

Bibliography

• Ormond, Leon+e and Richard, 'Lord Leighton', Yale University Press, London, 1975, p.160 (listed under catalogue number 186)