Robert SAYER and John BENNETT

The Love Letter [&] The Contemplative Charmer

12 x 16 inches

Such prints were hugely popular in Georgian England and dwelt upon the thoughts and forbidden passions of aristocratic ladies whose upbringing was often focused upon the quest for a husband. The ditties underneath the images appear trite to modern sensibilities but would have been charged with meaning for their genteel eighteenth century audience. How bless'd the Maid whose bosom No headstrong passion knows Her days in joy she passes, Her nights in soft repose. Such are the Charms that flush the Cheek, And sparkle in the eye, So from the lovely finish'd form, The transient Graces fly.