Sketch of two hands 1984

Edwin Austin Abbey made this sketch of two hands using chalk and pencil on paper. This simple sketch is of a draughtsman holding a pencil, and therefore represents the act of creation itself. Abbey was an American artist who spent much of his career in England. He became known for his illustrations of literary works, particularly Shakespeare. His images helped shape the way people understood literature and history. In the late 19th century, illustration was not just a commercial activity. It was a powerful means of shaping public opinion and cultural values. Artists like Abbey worked within a complex network of publishers and institutions that were very influential in this period. Understanding Abbey’s work means looking at the world around him, from the literary and artistic culture of his time to the institutions that shaped it. By exploring these resources, we gain a deeper insight into the social and institutional contexts of his art.