Home > North America > United States of America > New York > New York > Sights > Metropolitan Museum of Art
Killing with Kindness, October 1, 1799. October 1, 1799. Creator: Thomas Rowlandson
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Killing with Kindness, October 1, 1799. October 1, 1799. Creator: Thomas Rowlandson
Killing with Kindness, October 1, 1799
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 19986658
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Ackermann Ackermann R Ackermann Rudolph Apricot Bribe Bribery George Moutard George Moutard Woodward Grape Grapes Heir Heiress Inheritance Landowner R Ackermann Rowlandson Rowlandson Thomas Rudolph Rudolph Ackermann Sister In Law Thomas Rowlandson Wife Wives Woodward Woodward George Moutard Apricots Bribing Hand Coloured Hand Tinted Heirs
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> A
> Rudolph Ackermann
> Arts
> Artists
> H
> Thomas Hand
> Arts
> Artists
> R
> Thomas Rowlandson
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> George Moutard Woodward
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> Thomas Woodward
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Sights
> British Museum
> North America
> United States of America
> New York
> New York
> Sights
> Metropolitan Museum of Art
Killing with Kindness, October 1,1799 - A Satirical Depiction of Family Heirlooms and Marital Dynamics
EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this intriguing print titled "Killing with Kindness" created by Thomas Rowlandson in the late 18th century, we are transported back to a time when social hierarchies and marital alliances played a significant role in British society. The hand-tinted etching showcases an elaborate scene filled with symbolism and subtle commentary. The image portrays a family gathering where an heiress is being courted for her inheritance. The central figure, a woman surrounded by her female relatives, holds out a plate of apricots and grapes as if offering them as bribes to secure her future. This act of 'killing with kindness' alludes to the manipulation often employed within marriages based on financial gain rather than love. Rowlandson's meticulous attention to detail brings the scene to life; from the vibrant colors adorning their clothing to the intricate patterns on heirloom furniture that symbolize wealth and heritage. Through his artistry, he highlights not only the materialistic nature of these unions but also emphasizes how women were often pawns in securing familial legacies. This thought-provoking piece can be found at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), reminding us of our complex history while shedding light on societal norms that have evolved over time. It serves as a poignant reminder that true happiness cannot be bought or inherited but should instead be
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
