A James GILLRAY - Brisk Cathartic - Hand-colored etching - Humphrey edition 1804

Brisk Cathartic Hand-colored engraving - First published by Hannah Humphrey, London, January 28, 1804 27 St. James's Street A superb satirical print by the great British cartoonist James Gillray, in an original 1804 printing published by the renowned London publisher Hannah Humphrey, the cartoonist's long-time publisher and a central figure in British printmaking. The work belongs to Gillray's famous medical series, in which he ridiculed the extreme therapeutic treatments still practiced in the early 19th century - in this case, a violent purgative supposed to relieve all ills. The scene depicts a patient in complete disarray, sitting on a chamber pot with his hand on his stomach and his face contorted. The patient's comical attitude, the simple setting and Gillray's characteristic exaggeration effectively convey his biting humor and visual critique of the excesses of traditional medicine. This print features vivid, evenly preserved period colors. It was framed in England in the 1950s by Vicars Brothers Ltd, renowned art dealers, a provenance confirmed by the label affixed to the back of the frame. The print is now perfectly presented in an antique frame with black matting, ready for display. This print is a key example for collectors of Georgian satire. The remarkably well-preserved period hand-coloring and the subject matter - part of Gillray's satirical medical trilogy - make it a highly sought-after piece, both for its artistic value and its historical significance. Rare in this condition and of great visual quality, it is a sought-after addition to any collection of satirical prints, medical history or Napoleonic propaganda. A genuine period Condit, in very fine condition, perfectly suited to a demanding collection as well as an elegant interior - a precious testimony to the critical spirit and graphic humor of the early 19th century.

Ref: C1V7OP0OGC