A Man and a Monkey Riding on Horseback c. 1849

"A Man and a Monkey Riding on Horseback" is a pencil drawing on paper by Frederic Leighton, created around 1849. The artwork depicts a man riding a horse alongside a monkey, also riding a horse. The scene takes place in a town square, with people watching the spectacle, including children and a small dog. This drawing likely served as a preliminary study for a larger work, showcasing Leighton's early artistic skills and interest in narrative scenes. The composition is dynamic, with the figures and animals in motion, and the use of line and shading creates a sense of depth and detail. This is a rare glimpse into the creative process of one of the most celebrated artists of the Victorian era.