The Hardy Tin Soldier

License image

Harry Clarke , Irish, 1889-1931

Title

MediumInk, graphite, watercolour, gouache and glazes with bodycolour highlights

Dimensions

30.7 x 20.7 cm

Signedlower left: HARRY CLARKE

Credit LineHeritage Gift, Lochlann and Brenda Quinn, 2008

Object numberNGI.2008.89.9

DescriptionIn this oval frontispiece design The Hardy Tin Soldier, Clarke brings to life the one-legged tin soldier who falls in love with a paper-cut-out dancer, through a magical blend of minute detail, pattern and colour. Faced with perilous situations, conjured up by the goblin in the snuff-box, the little tin soldier stands resolute and steadfast in his love for the elegant maiden. A loving heart and bravery in the face of opposition are the constants in this tale.
Inscription'The Hardy Tin Soldier'/"Soldier!" Cried the magician./"will you keep your eyes to yourself"
ProvenanceA.& M. Shands, USA, by 1994; The Fine Art Society, London; Heritage Gift, Lochlann and Brenda Quinn, 2008Exhibition HistoryHarry Clarke: Ten Original Illustrations for Hans Christian Andersen's Fairy Tales, The Fine Art Society, London, 2008