Design for a Sarcophagus with Two Mourning Figures 1845 - 1855

This pencil drawing, created between 1845 and 1855 by the English sculptor John Gibson, is a design for a sarcophagus. The design features two mourning figures, one winged and the other draped in a flowing garment, flanking a central panel with a winged hourglass, symbolizing the passage of time. This design, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies Gibson's Neoclassical style, characterized by its emphasis on classical forms and themes. The work showcases Gibson's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to evoke emotion through subtle gestures and expressions.