Thomas Rowlandson.

Muck Worms. [&] Glow Worms.

9¾ x 6¾ inches

A whimsical pair of hand coloured etchings by Thomas Rowlandson, published in London in 1812.

These amusing, and yet contrasting caricatures poke fun at two very different ways of getting on in society. Muck worms are traditionally associated with miserly behaviour and the muck worm itself is a form of larva that feeds off mud and manure. The characters in this vignette are seated around a small table all intent upon the calculations being worked out by the scribe. There appears to be a quarrelsome edge to the negotiations and a suspicion between the collaborators. By contrast, the Glow Worms are seen rejoicing and raising a toast to king, country and their own good fortune. The monies appear to have been fairly divvied out and all seem to be content with their lot. What is unclear is where Rowlandson's sympathies lie but one suspects that he sees through the artifice of both!

£450 Pair