Man on horseback behind a slow-moving cart on a narrow lane

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Man on horseback behind a slow-moving cart on a narrow lane

Gentleman on horseback caught behind a slow-moving cart on a narrow lane at sunset. Miseries of the country. Handcoloured copperplate engraving designed and etched by Thomas Rowlandson to accompany Reverend James Beresfords Miseries of Human Life, Ackermann, 1808

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Media ID 23389736

© Florilegius

Ackermann Behind Beresford Carts Destruction Drive Etching Georgian Gravel Horseback Human Lane Miseries Moving Narrow Newly Path Regency Reverend Rolled Rowlandson Ruin Satire Slow Toys

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This handcoloured copperplate engraving, designed and etched by Thomas Rowlandson in 1808, depicts a gentleman on horseback, his expression one of frustration and annoyance, as he is caught behind a slow-moving cart on a narrow country lane at sunset. The scene is taken from Reverend James Beresford's "Miseries of Human Life," published by Ackermann. The cart, laden with various goods, is being pulled by an ox, its wheels barely turning on the newly rolled gravel drive. Children play around the cart, their toys scattered about, seemingly oblivious to the inconvenience caused to the gentleman on horseback. The sun casts a warm, golden glow over the scene, but the mood is far from idyllic. The title "Miseries of Human Life" is a reflection of the satirical and caricatured nature of the illustration. The gentleman's predicament, while seemingly minor, is a reminder of the many miseries and inconveniences that come with everyday life. The destruction and ruin that can be seen in the background, hinted at by the crumbling walls and overgrown foliage, add to the sense of decay and despair. Thomas Rowlandson's skillful use of line and shade, combined with the vibrant handcolouring, bring this scene to life. The narrow lane, the cart, the children, and the horse and rider are all rendered with intricate detail, making this a truly captivating work of art from the Regency and Georgian periods.

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