A Fellow of Maudlin

Lydia Bates

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a group of people from the waist up. The individuals have exaggerated facial features, cartoonish appearances, and eccentric hairstyles. They are engaging in different actions or expressions, with varied poses. The central figure holds a staff with detailed carvings, under a large decorative object, possibly a framed portrait. The people wear clothing with older fashion styles, like ruffled collars and layered garments. Some hold objects like a book, while others gesture animatedly. In the background, there are rough lines indicating a sketched backdrop.