Thomas Rowlandson

About the Print

This hand-coloured aquatint from 1813 depicts the opening scene of Thomas Rowlandson's celebrated Doctor Syntax series, showing the protagonist setting out on his tour to the Lakes. The composition captures Doctor Syntax, a comical clergyman-schoolmaster, mounted on his horse Grizzle as he begins his picturesque journey through the Lake District. Rowlandson's characteristic wit and keen eye for human folly are evident in the figure's ungainly posture and the spirited rendering of the scene.

The print exemplifies Rowlandson's mastery of the aquatint technique, with delicate hand-colouring that enhances the satirical narrative. The work belongs to the famous "Tour of Doctor Syntax in Search of the Picturesque" series, which satirized the contemporary fashion for picturesque tourism and the conventions of travel literature that were immensely popular in early 19th-century Britain.

The Doctor Syntax Series

The Tour of Doctor Syntax in Search of the Picturesque was first published serially in Rudolph Ackermann's Poetical Magazine beginning in 1809, with verses by William Combe accompanying Rowlandson's illustrations. The series became enormously popular, spawning two sequels and making Doctor Syntax one of the most recognizable comic characters of the Regency period.

The series satirized the cult of the picturesque that had swept through British society, mocking amateur artists, travel writers, and tourists who sought out scenic views according to fashionable aesthetic theories. Doctor Syntax's misadventures on his quest for picturesque subjects provided both entertainment and gentle mockery of contemporary cultural pretensions.

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 irreverent humor.

Rowlandson's prolific output included political satires, social commentary, and illustrated books. His fluid, energetic drawing style and masterful use of aquatint made his prints highly sought after during his lifetime and established him as one of the great figures of British satirical art. He worked extensively with publisher Rudolph Ackermann, producing numerous illustrated books and print series.

Thomas Rowlandson died in London in 1827, leaving behind a vast body of work that provides an invaluable visual record of Georgian society and remains celebrated for its artistic merit and satirical wit.

Technical Details

Artist: Thomas Rowlandson (1756-1827)
Title: Doctor Syntax Setting Out on his Tour to the Lakes
Series: Tour of Doctor Syntax in Search of the Picturesque
Date: 1813
Medium: Hand-coloured aquatint etching
Publisher: Rudolph Ackermann, London
Condition: Good condition
Dimensions: 12.5 x 20.5 cm / 5 x 8 in (sheet)
Frame: 25 x 33 cm / 10 x 13 in
Origin: England
Authentication: Authenticated

A fine example from one of the most popular satirical series of the Regency period.