Description
Print of a scenario satirizing the lack of empathy and fellow feeling demonstrated by members of the upper classes toward their servants. The pampered pet of the lady of the house has bitten her servant, causing him to upset the tray he was carrying, but she is only concerned about the broken dishes and the dog. Their conversation is printed below the image:
“Good lack a day John, what are you doing? you have broke all the tea things.”
“I can’t help it Ma’am, that nasty cur of yours has bit my leg.”
“Bit your leg! has he? dear me; I hope the pretty little creature won’t be Sick after it!!”
Robert Laurie (1755-1836) and James Whittle (1757-1818) were London map, chart and printsellers active from 1794 to 1812 trading variously as Laurie and Whittle or Whittle and Laurie. Laurie began his career as a fine mezzotint engraver and exhibited at the Society of Artists from 1770 to 1776. With Whittle, they took over the large map and print business of Robert Sayer. Laurie & Whittle published many atlases and maps and products used for jigsaw puzzles. Robert’s son, Richard Holmes Laurie, succeeded him upon his retirement in 1812, and after Whittle’s death in 1818 carried on the business alone until at least 1840. The firm still exists as Imray, Laurie, Norie and Wilson Ltd., which has long specialized in marine charts.
Condition: Generally very good with the usual light toning, wear, soiling, soft creases. Few short marginal tears, professionally restored.
Reference:
Maxted, Ian. “The London book trades 1775-1800: a preliminary checklist of members.” Exeter Working Papers in British Book Trade History. 2001. http://www.devon.gov.uk/library/locstudy/bookhist/lonl.html and http://www.devon.gov.uk/library/locstudy/bookhist/lonw.html (18 March 2002).
