Tomb Monument and Detail c. 1790

This drawing by English sculptor John Bacon the Elder, c. 1790, is a design for a tomb monument. The composition is characterized by a central oval medallion featuring a mourning figure, framed by a tree and two unicorns. This sketch, executed in pencil on paper, is a testament to Bacon’s elegant and classical style, evident in the delicate contours and graceful curves of the figures. The design reflects the prevailing funerary aesthetics of the late 18th century, embodying themes of grief and remembrance. The work is currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, offering a glimpse into the creative process of one of England’s most prominent sculptors.