As You Like It John Gilbert (1817-1897)

The drawing presents a scene set within a dense woodland environment. A woman stands centrally, her posture suggesting both composure and a degree of guardedness. She holds a walking stick, its length emphasizing her stature and perhaps indicating a journey or a need for support in this natural setting. Her attire is modest, hinting at a life lived outside the conventions of courtly society.
To her right, a man approaches, his body angled towards her with an expression that appears to be one of tentative appeal. He gestures slightly with his own hand, as if offering something or seeking permission. A hat lies discarded near his feet, a symbolic gesture potentially signifying a relinquishing of formality or a willingness to shed societal constraints.
Behind them, partially obscured by the foliage, are two figures observing the interaction. Their presence introduces an element of surveillance and potential judgment into the scene. They appear to be dressed in more rustic clothing than the central pair, suggesting they might represent local inhabitants or perhaps even woodland spirits.
The overall composition is framed by a thicket of trees, their branches intertwining to create a sense of enclosure and seclusion. The monochromatic palette contributes to an atmosphere of quiet contemplation and introspection. The title inscribed above – As You Like It – suggests themes of disguise, role-playing, and the exploration of identity within a natural setting, where social hierarchies are blurred and personal desires can be pursued with greater freedom. The drawing seems to capture a pivotal moment of potential connection or misunderstanding, leaving the viewer to ponder the nature of their relationship and the implications of their encounter.