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Man and two women failing to close a packed trunk
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Man and two women failing to close a packed trunk
Man and two women failing to close a packed trunk in a hotel room while a servant looks on. Miseries of Travelling. 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 23389828
© Florilegius
Ackermann Affection Ball Beresford Close Embarrassment Etching Failing Gentleman Georgian Human Kiss Miseries Packed Regency Reverend Rowlandson Satire Trunk Ugly Forfeits
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this intriguing hand-colored copperplate engraving designed and etched by Thomas Rowlandson, we find ourselves in the midst of a humorous and relatable scene from the Regency era. The title "Man and two women failing to close a packed trunk" succinctly describes the situation at hand, but the image is rich with additional details that add depth and satire to the moment. At the center of the image, a gentleman, dressed in fashionable attire, stands at the foot of an open trunk, his brow furrowed in frustration as he attempts to force the lid shut. Two women, one beautiful and the other less so, stand on either side of him, each trying to help by pushing down on the trunk's lid. The contrast between their appearances highlights the capricious nature of beauty and the challenges of travel. A servant, observing the scene with a smirk, stands in the background, no doubt amused by the spectacle. The scene is reminiscent of the "Miseries of Human Life" series, which was published by Rudolph Ackermann in 1808 and featured text by Reverend James Beresford. The series aimed to satirize various aspects of human life, and this image seems to capture the embarrassment and frustration that often accompany the process of packing and traveling. The women's expressions suggest that they have likely been playing a game or participating in forfeits at a ball or party prior to this moment. The man's kiss on the hand of the ugly woman further adds to the sense of affectionate teasing and playfulness. The overall effect is a charming and amusing glimpse into the everyday experiences of the Regency era.
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