The BOSTONIANS in DISTRESS.
DateNovember 19, 1774
Engraver
Johann Martin Will
Publisher
Robert Sayer (1725-1794) & John Bennett (fl. 1760-1787)
OriginEngland, London
MediumMezzotint engraving on laid paper
DimensionsOverall: 15 7/8 × 11 1/4 in (40.32 × 28.57cm)
Platemark: 14 3/4 × 9 1/4 in (37.46 × 23.49cm)
Framed (Rabbet Size): 19 3/4 × 15 1/4 in (50.16 × 38.73cm)
Platemark: 14 3/4 × 9 1/4 in (37.46 × 23.49cm)
Framed (Rabbet Size): 19 3/4 × 15 1/4 in (50.16 × 38.73cm)
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1960-129
DescriptionThe lower margin reads: "Ioh Martin Will excudit Aug Vind/ The BOSTONIANS in DISTRESS./ London, Printed for R. Sayer & J. Bennett, Map & Printsellers, N.o 53 Fleet Street, as the Act directs, 19 Nov.r 1774."The maker has symbolized the closing of the port by placing the Bostonians in a cage suspended from the Liberty Tree. Three men in a small boat are attempting to feed citizens with fish placed on the ends of long poles that are then thrust through bars. British soldiers on the shore are supported by cannons, and the ships in the harbor symbolize the continued blockade.
ProvenanceBefore 1960, H. Dunscombe Colt [1901-1973] (New York, NY); before 1960, purchased by the Old Print Shop (New York, NY); 1960-present, purchased by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA).
Robert Sayer (1725-1794) & John Bennett (fl. 1760-1787)
October 10, 1774
