The present drawing is a composition study for Cowper's 1919 Royal Academy exhibit, The Cathedral Scene from 'Faust': Margaret tormented by the Evil Spirit, sold in these Rooms, 30 November 2000, lot 10. Regarded as one of the last exponents of the Pre-Raphaelite tradition, Cowper's work has a romantic, dramatic feel. As he no doubt knew, Faust had been a favourite subject of Rossetti, as well as artists such as Delacroix and Von Holst. The ecclesiastical setting, with deep shadow pierced by stained-glass windows also recalls the earlier Pre-Raphaelites.