Study for 'Cupid and Dove': Cherub, Doves

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Drawing details

Title: Study for 'Cupid and Dove': Cherub, Doves
Date: 1860-70
Media: Black and white chalk on blue paper
Dimensions: 15.8 x 13.8 cm
Location: Leighton House Museum
Picture credit: Leighton House Museum, The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
Reference number: LHO/D/0656
Inscriptions: Inscribed lower right "2/89" in pencil. Inscribed lower right "T" in pencil. Inscribed on reverse, centre "J69" encircled, in pencil, crossed out in pencil.

Interpretation

This drawing is probably an early idea for the composition of the painting (1870s, untraced).

Description

Study for the composition of the painting 'Cupid and Dove' (1870s, untraced). This is an entirely different composition to the finished work and shows Cupid standing, facing the viewer, holding the pot of seed to his chest. He looks down at four pigeons pecking at seed around his feet. The composition is drawn within a circular border. 

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.167 (listed under catalogue number 311)