Dr Syntax with my LORD... Rowlandson etching c1817.

by Rowlandson, Thomas

Antique print of Dr Syntax imbibing in style.

Aquatint drawn and etched between 1809 and 1811 by Thomas Rowlandson (1757-1827) for The Tour of Dr Syntax in Search of the Picturesque. He portrays a contemporary popular ideal of a country cleric who travels to the Lake District to sketch landscapes. Rowlandson caricatures illustrate possible experiences of such a pleasurable leisure activity. First issued in Rudolph Ackermann's Poetical Magazine between 1809 and 1811, accompanied by poems by William Combe (1794-1823), Dr Syntax's tour was first published as a separate little book in 1812, and was so popular that it was reissued a number of times until 1821. This aquatint etching was printed circa 1817.

Most cartoons attacked politicians, royalty and other newsworthy people. Rowlandson's Dr Syntax was probably more popular because he was fictional but recognisable - as anyone having a series of country adventures. The small format of this book enabled its larger circulation, carried in pockets for ready entertainment.

As would be expected, the pages are somewhat soiled. This image is missing top edge (so much reduced in price). Page size is 215 x 130mm (8.5 x 5.25 inches). Image size is 175 x 110mm  (6 7/8 x 4 3/8 inches).