“The Antique Architect” [1773] (a caricature of Robert Adam (1728-1792)) by Matthias Darly

“The Antique Architect” [1773] (Robert Adam (1728-1792)))
A caricature print by Matthias Darly (c.1721-1780)
Published by Mary Darly (1736-1791)
Etching on laid paper 
Published London, 1773

Measures:-
17.5 cm by 12.7 cm (Platemark)
19.8 cm by 14.1 cm (Sheet)

Framed and glazed.

Almost certainly a caricature of the neoclassical architect Robert Adam (1728-1792). In 1773 (the date of this print), Robert Adam, along with his brother James, began publishing “The Works in Architecture of Robert and James Adam”. The folio book under the subject’s arm is probably intended to represent a volume from this landmark publication which showcased the Adam brothers’ designs and promoted the “Adam style”.

Image of a fashionable gentleman, wearing tailcoat and waistcoat, striped knee-length breeches, stockings and buckled shoes, cocked hat (tricorne) on head; sword to his left hip, cane in crook of right arm, book under left arm, pen in left hand. Right hand reaching into inner breast pocket. On ground to subject’s right a section of carved classical frieze, a piece of paper and a set of dividers. Numbered "V.6" top left and "22" top right; below lettered with title and "Pubd. Accor. to Act Octr 11 1773. by M Darly Strand." Image Number 22 from Volume 6 of Darley’s “Characters, Macaronies & Caricatures” by MDarly. [1773] (Vol.6).

Scarce. See BM 1915,0313.232

Good condition. Vintage frame with some wear. Slight staining and watermarking to paper, commensurate with age.