Ricketts’ reproduced pen drawing portrays the ancient Greek myth of Oedipus and the Sphinx. In the image, Oedipus is leaning in toward the Sphinx to answer her question. The dead bodies scattered on the ground suggest that other men have tried and failed her test. Oedipus stands naked, in three-quarter profile facing the right. He has long tangled hair and there are a couple of small flowers in the tangles. His right leg is straight, and his left leg is bent as he is on steps and bends forward to speak to the Sphinx. On his lap rests his unworn robe and his staff, loosely held up by his left hand.
