The prince of wales falls headlong, but gracefully, from his high phaeton, and is 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. After the title is etched:
'"th' imaginary bride with beauty glows,
"for envy magnifies what e'er she shows. Ovid. ' 1 july 1788
etching. Date: 1788. Dimensions: Height: 250 mm; Width: 356 mm. Medium: paper. Depicted People: George IV, King of the United Kingdom. Collection: British Museum. The fall of Phaeton (BM 1868,0808.5750)
Loading...
