Three Children c. 1849

This pencil sketch, “Three Children”, is a study by Frederic Leighton, a prominent Pre-Raphaelite painter, from around 1849. The work captures the youthful innocence of children in a series of simple but expressive poses. Leighton's meticulous attention to detail and masterful use of line are evident in this preliminary sketch, a testament to his dedication to capturing the human form. This work exemplifies the artist's early exploration of figurative art, which would become a hallmark of his later career.