Illustration design for "The Economy of Human Life" 1834

This illustration by Frank Howard, dated 1834, depicts a scene from “The Economy of Human Life,” a popular moralistic text. The scene is a domestic one, featuring a woman kneeling before an older man, possibly her husband, seated in a chair. The woman’s hand reaches out towards the man, while a group of other figures look on, suggesting a moment of deep emotion or significant event. Howard's use of delicate lines and shading creates a sense of intimacy and gravity, capturing the emotional intensity of the scene. The illustration, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art collection, provides insight into the visual culture of the 19th century, reflecting the popularity of moralistic narratives in Victorian England.