George Hunt after Theodore Lane

A Thaw

13 x 16 inches

Etching and aquatint in original hand colour; engraved by George Hunt after Theodore Lane and published in London in 1827.

A charming scene that resonates as well today as it did back in the 1820s when it was issued. A dejected looking fellow sits up in his makeshift bed as water cascades through the ceiling from the melting snow above. He attempts to protect himself with an umbrella that has clearly seen better days and is surrounded by pots, pans and other makeshift receptacles to collect the unwelcome water. An upturned saucepan atop a broom handle protects the candle from the deluge whilst the cat appears quite content having sought refuge under the stool.