What came of picking Jessamine Henry Justice Ford (1860-1941)

The drawing presents a figure seemingly emerging from or sinking into a body of water, rendered in a detailed, illustrative style. The composition is framed by a decorative border bearing text that defines the scenes title.
Here we see a central figure, whose posture suggests distress and vulnerability. They are positioned low within the frame, their form partially submerged in what appears to be murky water choked with reeds and vegetation. The individual’s face is turned upwards, conveying an expression of anguish or supplication. Their clothing – a tunic and what seems to be a cap – is damp and clings to the body, further emphasizing the sense of immersion.
The artist has employed intricate linework to depict both the figure and the surrounding environment. The reeds are meticulously detailed, creating a dense texture that obscures parts of the figure and contributes to an atmosphere of confinement. Behind the central subject, a distant landscape is visible – a cluster of buildings atop a rise, suggesting civilization or refuge, yet remaining inaccessible.
The overall effect is one of isolation and potential peril. The water itself can be interpreted as symbolic – representing hardship, emotional turmoil, or perhaps even a descent into madness. The figure’s posture and expression suggest a struggle against an unseen force, while the distant buildings offer a tantalizing but unattainable promise of safety.
The drawings monochromatic palette reinforces its somber mood, focusing attention on the interplay of light and shadow to define form and texture. The artist’s skill in rendering detail creates a sense of realism that amplifies the emotional impact of the scene, inviting contemplation about themes of loss, struggle, and the precariousness of human existence.