The fall of Phaeton

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James Gillray
1756-1815
The fall of Phaeton
etching
image: 232 x 343 mm; plate mark: 249 x 353 mm; sheet: 257 x 356 mm
Purchased by J. Pierpont Morgan, 1900.
Peel 2580
Published: 
[London] : : Pub. July 1st 1788. by S.W. Fores N. 3 Piccadilly, [1788]
Provenance: 
Formerly owned by Sir Robert Peel.
Notes: 

By James Gillray.

Summary: 

Print shows the Prince of Wales falling headlong from his high phaeton, and about to land on Mrs. Fitzherbert, who lies face downwards on the ground, on hands and knees, her petticoats over her head, leaving her posteriors bare. The reins have broken, the horses, which are drawn with much spirit, are running away (right to left). In the background is a wall, over which appears the head of an interested military officer. A yokel seated on the wall lifts his hands in astonishment. Cf. British Museum online catalog.

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