The Comforts of Bath

Date1789

After work by Thomas Rowlandson

MediumHand coloured etching with light aquatint

DimensionsPlate: H: 6 11/16"x W: 9 5/16"

Credit LineGift of Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, Jr.

Object number1939-293

DescriptionLower margin reads: "COMFORTS of BATH./ Pl 5/ Pub.d Janu.y 6th 1798 by S.W. Fores N.o 50 Picadilly corner of Sackville Street/ Rowlandson fecit."Label TextThis is plate five of Thomas Rowlandson's twelve-part series entitled The Comforts of Bath which satirized the behavior, fashion, and culture of Bath, England. This print stylish lady and gentleman riding on horses. Directly behind is an elderly gentleman on a slow old nag, carrying a crutch. He is bound indicating a case of gout. They are on their way to Bath to take the cure. Other carriage and riders on horseback make up the background of the print.ProvenanceBefore 1932, Frederick Keppel & Co. [1868-1940] (New York, NY);1932, purchased by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller [1874-1948] (New York, NY); 1939-given to the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation (Williamsburg, VA).