Signed with monogram and dated l.r.: 28.xii.1899/JES

Gold point on prepared paper, 18 by 16 cm (7 by 6 ¼ ins)

Provenance: the artist’s cousin Isabel Harlock and thence by descent

Southall made drawings in both gold point and silver point and considered gold point to be superior as the metal did not oxidise.  The technique of metal point drawing dates from the fifteenth century.  It is made by drawing with a fine point of soft metal upon a specially prepared textured ground which results in a delicate line of the metal.  It is a demanding and time-consuming process for the draughtsman, as although it produces beautiful lines, it is very difficult to correct or amend.