Color mezzotint " The Waterman's Reluctance on Going to War " from Charles Dibdin (1745-1814) 1774 opera The Waterman. A copy of this mezzotint is part of the collection of the British Museum. It is inscribed as follows:

Signature: in plate below image: "Painted by G. Morland. / Engraved by W. Ward"
Title: The Waterman's Reluctance on Going to War

It portrays a pressgang of three men forcibly recruiting a young man on a boat into Naval service. This recruitment method, known as Impressment, was used by the Royal Nav,y, specially during times of war, prior to the 20th century. Zoom into photos to appreciate in detail. William Ward (1766-1826) was engraver to the Duke of York, the Prince of Wales, and associate engraver to the Royal Academy. George Morland (1763-1804) was an English painter known for his genre paintings. Mezzotint comes nicely matted and framed, ready to display. An interesting piece of Naval history and conversation piece, perfect addition to a maritime / nautical decor.

Measurements: Frame: 26" by 22 3/4" approximately.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: In very good condition with toning and minor imperfections as shown.

Origin:
United Kingdom

Materials & Techniques:
Paper, Wood

Details:
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Art Subjects: Seascape
Frame Type: Framed

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; In very good condition with toning and minor imperfections as shown.