Thomas Rowlandson

About the Print

This hand-coloured aquatint from 1813 depicts a contemplative scene from Thomas Rowlandson's celebrated Doctor Syntax series, showing the protagonist meditating among tombstones in a country churchyard. The composition captures Doctor Syntax in a moment of philosophical reflection, surrounded by weathered gravestones and the atmospheric setting of a rural cemetery. Rowlandson's characteristic blend of gentle satire and picturesque composition is evident in this melancholic yet subtly humorous scene.

The print exemplifies Rowlandson's mastery of the aquatint technique, with delicate hand-colouring that enhances the contemplative mood of the scene. The work belongs to the famous "Tour of Doctor Syntax in Search of the Picturesque" series, which followed the comic adventures of an amateur artist and poet traveling through Britain in pursuit of scenic subjects worthy of his artistic and literary ambitions.

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.

This particular scene reflects the 18th and early 19th-century fascination with graveyard poetry and melancholic contemplation, themes popularized by poets like Thomas Gray. Rowlandson gently satirizes this literary fashion while creating a genuinely atmospheric composition that demonstrates his skill in rendering mood and setting alongside his satirical intent.

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 Meditating on the Tomb Stones
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: 14 x 21.5 cm./ 5 ½ x 8 ½ in (sheet)
Frame: 28 x 34.5 cm / 11 x 13 ½ in
Origin: England
Authentication: Authenticated

A contemplative scene from one of the most popular satirical series of the Regency period.