SMELLING.
Date1784
After work by
John Nixon
Publisher
William Wells
OriginEngland, London
MediumBlack and white stipple engraving with etching and period hand color
DimensionsOH: 9 5/8" x 12 1/2"; Plate H: 9" x W: 11 1/2"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1964-472,3
DescriptionThe lower margin reads: "SMELLING./ I. Nixon Inv.t et del./ Publishd April 21.st 1784, by W.m Wells N.o 132 (opposite Salisbury Court) Fleet Street, London."Label TextPart of a series on the senses. The inside of a snuff store is shown here. Behind the counter the proprietor measures out snuff into a paper. A woman behind him reaches for a jar. Several different types of containers for snuff are seen on a shelf and on the counter and in the window. In front of the counter are two scotch men in kilts and berets using snuff. A dandy is also shown in the act of putting a pinch up his nose. Behind him a young woman with box in hand is either waiting to be served or is about to use some.ProvenanceBefore 1964, the Old Print Shop (New York, NY); 1964-present, purchased by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA).
