This is a very interesting antique Georgian print by the celebrated caricaturist and illustrator, George Cruikshank. During his lifetime he was known as the "modern Hogarth" and is best known for his book illustrations for his friend, Charles Dickins.
Cruikshank's early career was renowned for his social caricatures of English life. He gained notoriety with his political prints that attacked the royal family and leading politicians.
This work dating to 1825 is a fabulous and typical work by the artist.
In Georgian England, satirists provided poignant social commentary on the over-consumption of food.
For the middle and especially the upper classes, gluttony was seen as fashionable, even socially accepted.
A good English dinner included all types of meat, including ribs of roast beef, boiled turkey, and enormous hams, all served at the table at one time. In the 1830′s it also became fashionable to eat at a late hour, following the custom of Queen Victoria who dined as late as eight o’clock.
The protagonist in George Cruikshank’s 1835 piece, “Indigestion,” suffers from the effects of indulging in a fashionably late night of overeating. A dinner ticket from the evening’s festivities lies on the floor at his feet.
The results of the gentleman's gluttony is shown in his furrowed brows and flushed cheeks. In an attempt to help him cool down, a little imp pours water down his back.
It is night time and a big full moon is seen through the window. The gentleman had got up from his bed, seen to the right, and sits on his armchair clutching at his stomach. We have all been there!
Oh - he is plagued by discomfort - and the pain is shown with the introduction into the image of a variety of little imps or devil figures. They annoy the distressed gentleman in a number of ways - and are very demonic in intent.
The print is inscribed below: A. Crowquill Esqr. delt. ; etched by G.Ck. (to the left) and (to the right): Pubd. by S. Knight Sweetings Alley Royal Xchange, Decr. 12th 1825.
The print is an early impression from 1825 (there were later re-issues made in 1835).
It is in good antique condition. It has black etched lines and has its original watercolour hand-colouring - in shades of blue, pale blues and pale yellows.
Image size is 18 x 23 cm.
It has recently been remounted in a fresh ivory coloured mount. This measures 33 x 40 cm. It will be framed with a simple black frame on request.
A much sought after and interesting Georgian print which is listed at a fair price.
Please see my other antique prints in my store - including a fine pendant to this one entitled Jealousy.
HAPPY TO SEND INTERNATIONALLY, PLEASE ASK FOR A POSTAGE QUOTE OUTSIDE OF THE UK.