Thomas Rowlandson

Dr. Syntax Robb'd of his Property

7.5 x 5 inches

Hand coloured etching with additional aquatinting, published in London 1821.

A scene from Thomas Rowlandson's charming and humorous work, "The Tour of Dr. Syntax". The esteemed doctor is fast asleep in his four-poster bed whilst a servant makes off with his possessions. A chamber pot sits under the bed and the famous Syntax wig hangs upon a hook nearby. Thomas Rowlandson was born in London in 1756 and during his lifetime became one of the most influential and admired caricaturist of all time. He was born the son of a bankrupt merchant but due to his artistic talents he was able to study at the schools of the Royal Academy. He rapidly excelled as both a draughtsman and an engraver and was to become an accomplished master in both etching and aquatinting. He lived and worked in London and it was here that he drew inspiration for his work. He earned his living by etching single plates, sets of sporting prints, innumerable caricatures and book illustrations. Rowlandson worked for the most prominent publishers of his day including S. W. Fores, Rudolph Ackermann and T. Tegg. He was not good with money and squandered most of his inheritance and earnings on gambling. He died in 1827, leaving behind him a monumental body of work and a wonderful legacy to future caricaturists.