This is a genuine 19th-century antique print.
It was made by William Heath and published on 2nd June 1829 by T. McLean, London - as the publisher of Paul Pry Caricatures.
William Heath (1794 – 1840) was a British artist who was best known for his fine engravings which included caricatures, political cartoons, and general commentary on contemporary life.
His early works often dealt with military scenes, including colour plates for The Martial Achievements, The Wars of Wellington, etc. From about 1820 on he focused on satire. Between 1827 and 1829, many of his works (including this one) were published under the pseudonym "Paul Pry". He created a numbered series of political caricatures between 1830 – 1834 for McLean's Monthly.
This is an original Heath hand-coloured etching entitled: Take Care of Your Pockets. A Hint for the Orthodox.
Lettered with title, text within image, production details and publication line: "(Paul Pry) Esq [W. Heath.] / Pub June 2d by T. McLean 26 Haymarket Sole Publisher of Paul Pry Caricatures".
The print is a satirical image on the subject of alleged interference with the property and doctrine of the Church. Here, Sir Robert Peel (Home Secretary) and the Duke of Wellington are depicted as ragged street urchins or beggars trying to pick the pockets of an old parson or bishop. The clergyman is dressed all in black and is walking forward - the two men are shown picking his back pocket. The parson is suspicious of the men, surmising that they are thinking of robbing him.
The satirical implications are directed at the Catholic Emancipation Act, passed earlier that year, who allowed members of the clergy to assume political positions.
The print is accompanied by the following Shakespeare quote, placed above: "Take heed, have open eyes; for thieves do foot abroad. Render unto Seizer those things which are Seizers".
An impression of this fine print is in the collection of the British Museum in London.
This is a guaranteed genuine antique original print - it is NOT a later reproduction.
Dimensions: Frame size is 37 x 48 cm. Image size is 24 x 36 cm.
CONDITION: sold in a simple wooden frame. It is a nice clean impression - it is in a vintage pale grey window mount. The print might benefit from a new fresh mount - but the current one is certainly fine - and you could readily hang this work as sold on your wall.
Please note: The price quoted here is from the artwork only.
The frame comes free with this artwork. Any damage in transit to the frame / mount / picture glass will not be subject to any refunds, discounts or re-framing costs from us.
Sadly, this interesting antique print would have to be posted to UK addresses only. Postage quoted here is for UK postage, tracked and signed for with Parcelforce48.