Henry Wilson (1864-1934) was one of the most original and versatile architect-craftsmen of the early 20th century. He trained initially as an architect but over his career found himself increasingly drawn to the associated arts: church furnishings, stained glass, sculpture, metalwork and jewellery.

Wilson studied at the Kidderminster School of Art, Westminster School of Art and the Royal College of Art, before commencing his architectural training in the offices of Edward Shrewsbury (1848-1924), John Oldrid Scott (1841-1913) and John Belcher. From 1888 to 1891 he was chief architectural assistant to John Dando Sedding (1838-91). The three years he spent in Sedding’s office shaped some of his most deeply held beliefs including the notion that architects should be able to decorate their own buildings and should therefore master other crafts. With this in mind, Wilson turned his attention to designing the jewellery and metalwork pieces he is arguably most well-known for.

This portrait of an unidentified child is part of a larger group of drawings by Wilson in the V&A collection depicting his friends and family members.