Hand-coloured lithograph  1830

Image: 233 x 143 mm Sheet: 262 x 214 mm

This humorous lithograph with original hand colouring was published in the series, Purcell's Lithographic Drawing Book depicting the personification of trade costumes, characters composed of the objects of their profession. It was drawn by George Spratt, printed by George E Madeley, Wellington Street, Strand and published by Charles Tilt, Fleet Street, London, in 1830. Original prints from this series are extremely rare and sought after. George Spratt, the artist, was also a male mid-wife and a member of the Royal College of Surgeons. In 1833, he illustrated and published Obstetric Tables, an anatomical 'pop-up' book describing the various stages of pregnancy.

A satirical rendering of an antiquarian including a knight's helmet and suit of armour, medieval and gothic carvings, old gold coins, stained-glass windows, an arrow, a spear, and Egyptian mummy's case.