Study for Debating Society in Piccadilly, from Microcosm of London c. 1808

This pencil sketch by Augustus Charles Pugin, titled "Study for Debating Society in Piccadilly, from Microcosm of London," depicts a lively scene within a debating society in London. The composition is dominated by the rows of figures seated throughout the room, all seemingly engaged in the discussion, demonstrating the popularity and importance of debate in 19th-century England. The sketch, created around 1808, provides a glimpse into the social and intellectual life of the period, highlighting the value placed on discourse and intellectual exchange. The drawing is a study for a larger work, showcasing Pugin's ability to capture the energy and detail of a scene with minimal lines.