The Anacreontic Petition and Song
Carington Bowles, London: 1791
Mezzotint
18 x 11.5 inches
$750
The Anacreontic Petition and Song
London: 1791
London: 1791
 |
 |
This droll portrayal of the Greek pantheon receiving the "Anacreontic Petition," includes Zeus in the foreground, Hermes with his winged helmet and Artemis with a crescent moon atop her head, Bacchus with a cup of wine, and others. It illustrates the lyrics to the Anacreontic Song, a drinking tune that is printed below the picture., which was the theme song of the Anacreontic Society, a London gentlemen's club named after the Greek poet Anacreon, and dedicated to "wit, harmony, and the god of wine." According to the song, "To Anacreon in Heav'n where he sat in full Glee/ a few Sons of Harmony sent a Petition/ That he their Inspirer and Patron wou'd be..."
The lyrics have been credited to Society president Ralph Tomlinson, Esquire, although some historians think it was probably a collective effort by members. The tune was probably written by John Stafford Smith (1750-1836), a court musician and member of the Society who was also composer of God Save the Queen. The song began appearing in American papers with various lyrics, and was later used by Francis Scott Key for the Star Spangled Banner.
Carrington Bowles was a prominent and prolific London publisher of maps and prints. He began in the printselling trade working for his father, and ran his own business from 1754-93.
Full publication information: Carington Bowles, St. Paul's Church Yard, London: 1791.
Condition: Generally very good with the usual light toning, wear, soiling, soft creases.