Study for Master William Wilberforce 1824

John Linnell's 1824 "Study for Master William Wilberforce" is a delicate pencil sketch of a young boy's profile. The artist, known for his Romantic style, captures the child's innocence and vulnerability with soft, flowing lines. This study likely served as preparation for a larger portrait of William Wilberforce, a prominent British politician and abolitionist, suggesting Linnell's interest in capturing the likeness of influential figures. The drawing's simplicity and directness make it a captivating example of Linnell's skill in portraiture.