Thomas Rowlandson

About the Print

This hand-coloured aquatint from 1812 depicts a dramatic scene set in Avignon, executed by Thomas Rowlandson with his characteristic blend of narrative energy and satirical observation. The composition captures a moment of high drama in the historic French city, rendered with Rowlandson's fluid drawing style and enhanced by delicate hand-colouring. The architectural setting of Avignon provides an atmospheric backdrop for the unfolding tragic narrative, demonstrating Rowlandson's skill in combining figure work with architectural detail.

The print exemplifies Rowlandson's mastery of the aquatint technique and his ability to create compelling narrative scenes. While known primarily for his satirical works, Rowlandson also excelled at dramatic storytelling, and this print demonstrates his versatility as an artist and his command of composition, gesture, and atmospheric effect.

Historical Context

Avignon, the historic papal city in southern France, held particular fascination for British artists and travelers during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The city's dramatic history, medieval architecture, and association with the papal court made it a popular subject for artists and writers of the Romantic period. Rowlandson's choice of Avignon as a setting reflects the contemporary British interest in Continental European history and picturesque locations.

This print was created in 1812, during the Napoleonic Wars when direct travel to France was difficult for British citizens, making prints depicting Continental scenes particularly appealing to British audiences who could not easily visit these locations themselves.

About the Artist

Thomas Rowlandson (1756-1827) was one of the most accomplished British satirical artists and printmakers of the Georgian era. Born in London in 1756, Rowlandson studied at the Royal Academy Schools and in Paris before establishing himself as a leading caricaturist and illustrator. His work combined technical virtuosity in drawing and printmaking with sharp social observation and narrative skill.

Rowlandson's prolific output included political satires, social commentary, illustrated books, and dramatic narrative scenes. His fluid, energetic drawing style and masterful use of aquatint made his prints highly sought after during his lifetime. He worked with leading publishers of the period, including Rudolph Ackermann and Thomas Tegg, producing numerous illustrated books and individual prints.

Thomas Rowlandson died in London in 1827, leaving behind a vast body of work that provides an invaluable visual record of Georgian society and demonstrates his range as both satirist and narrative artist.

Technical Details

Artist: Thomas Rowlandson (1756-1827)
Title: A Tragic Story at Avignon
Date: 1812
Medium: Hand-coloured aquatint etching
Condition: Good condition
Dimensions: 12.5 x 19 cm / 5 x 7½ in.(view)
Frame: 28 x 34.5 cm / 11 x 13½ in
Origin: England
Authentication: Authenticated

A dramatic narrative scene demonstrating Rowlandson's versatility beyond satirical subjects.