Thomas Rowlandson
Thomas Rowlandson
Doctor Syntax and his Counterpart
About the Etching
This charming hand-colored aquatint etching from 1820 depicts a humorous scene from "The Second Tour of Doctor Syntax in Search of Consolation" by Thomas Rowlandson (1757-1827). The print shows Doctor Syntax seated at a dining table in animated conversation with his near-identical counterpart, while two maids watch and snicker from the doorway. This delightful image exemplifies Rowlandson's gift for capturing comic social situations with wit and artistic skill.
The work features Rowlandson's characteristic flowing line work and expressive figures, enhanced by period hand-coloring that brings warmth and vitality to the scene. Published by Rudolph Ackermann in London, this etching was part of the second Doctor Syntax series, which continued the adventures of the beloved character introduced in 1812.
About the Doctor Syntax Series
The Doctor Syntax series was one of the most successful satirical works of the Regency era. Following the enormous popularity of "The Tour of Doctor Syntax in Search of the Picturesque" (1812), the collaboration between artist Thomas Rowlandson and poet William Combe produced two sequels: "The Second Tour of Doctor Syntax in Search of Consolation" (1820) and "The Third Tour of Doctor Syntax in Search of a Wife" (1821).
The series followed the misadventures of Doctor Syntax, a naive country clergyman whose travels led to various comic mishaps and social encounters. The works satirized contemporary society, picturesque tourism, and human vanity with humor and sympathy. Doctor Syntax became a cultural phenomenon in early 19th-century Britain, with the character's name entering common usage and inspiring merchandise, plays, and imitations.
About Thomas Rowlandson
Thomas Rowlandson (1757-1827) was one of the most celebrated British caricaturists and printmakers of the Georgian era. Born in London, he studied at the Royal Academy and in Paris before establishing himself as a master of satirical art. Rowlandson's work combined acute social observation with technical brilliance, particularly in his use of the aquatint medium.
His prolific output included political satires, social commentary, and illustrated books. The Doctor Syntax series represents some of his finest work, demonstrating his ability to create engaging narrative sequences with humor and artistic skill. His partnership with publisher Rudolph Ackermann from 1797 produced most of his finest work over twenty years. Rowlandson's influence on British satirical art was profound, and his works remain highly valued for their wit, craftsmanship, and historical significance.
Technical Details
Artist: Thomas Rowlandson (1757-1827)
Author: William Combe (1742-1823)
Publisher: Rudolph Ackermann, London
Date: 1820
Medium: Hand-colored etching with aquatint on paper
Series: The Second Tour of Doctor Syntax in Search of Consolation
Condition: Good condition
Dimensions: 13.5 × 20 cm (5 ¼ × 8 in.) — View size
Frame: 45.5 × 34.5 cm (18 × 13 ½ in.) — Gilt wood, contemporary, cream-colored acid-free matting and glass
Origin: United Kingdom
Sources: The J. Paul Getty Museum; Royal Academy.