Art Funded by you

The Crossing Sweeper

William Powell Frith, 1858

William Powell Frith is considered to be the greatest painter of the social scene since Hogarth. The immense popularity of his works is due in part to their encompassing all stratas of society and in highlighting social concerns and reflecting London's diverse population. In this painting a little street urchin, the crossing sweeper, is attempting to persuade a pretty young lady to pay him to escort her across a busy London road. It was one of Frith's most popular compositions.

More information

Title of artwork, date

The Crossing Sweeper, 1858

Date supported

2003

Medium and material

Oil on canvas

Dimensions

43.1 x 35.5 cm

Grant

13600

Total cost

40800

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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