Artwork
Bartholomew Fair
Bartholomew Fair is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Thomas Rowlandson. It dates from 1807 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:recto: in plate, above image, at right: 7; in plate, below image, at right: Rowlandson Scul.; in plate, below image, at right: John. Nixon esq.r De.; on mount, in graphite at lower left in later hand: Unique proof / 1667 1808; on mount, in graphite at lower right: Bartholomew Fair Proof GII-92 / (B-12, 402); verso: at center in graphite in later hand: 390
- Markings
- Marked:recto: on mount: William Augustus Fraser (Lugt 2831)
About this work
Overview
Bartholomew Fair is an 1807 print by Thomas Rowlandson, created using etching, stipple, and hand coloring on wove paper. It exemplifies the artist's Georgian-era caricature style, capturing a lively scene with meticulous detail.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a chaotic and vibrant procession at Bartholomew Fair, teeming with people, a decorated wagon, and surrounding architecture. The scene conveys the energy and humor characteristic of Rowlandson's social commentary.
Technique & Style
Rowlandson employed etching and stipple techniques to achieve fine lines and textures, combined with hand coloring to enhance the scene's liveliness. The dense composition, filled with tiny details, showcases his caricaturist skill.
History & Provenance
Bartholomew Fair is part of Rowlandson's broader output of satires, novel illustrations, and topographical works. Specific provenance details for this print are not provided.
Context
Created during the Georgian Era, the print reflects Rowlandson's role as a social commentator through caricature, often targeting contemporary life and figures in power with a mix of humor and occasional bawdiness.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Rowlandson (; 13 July 1757 – 21 April 1827) was an English artist and caricaturist of the Georgian Era, noted for his political satire and social observation.
