REAPER RETURNING HOME 1798 Peltro William Tomkins ANTIQUE ETCHING

Original 1798 8 inch x 9 3/4 inch Etching and Stipple titled THE REAPER RETURNING HOME
A young labourer approaching the crest of a hill, looking up to left, towards the full moon, holding a sickle in his left hand, a bundle of straw on a stick over his shoulder, with landscape in the background. Tailpiece to 'Hymn' which was published at the end of 'The seasons' by James Thomson (London: 1797).

Engraved and published by Peltro William Tomkins (1759-1840). A popular stipple and aquatint etcher and engraver, Peltro William Tomkins studied printmaking techniques under Francesco Bartolozzi. He gave drawing lessons to the royal children and was appointed historical engraver to the Queen in 1793.

From the painting by William Hamilton (1751 - 1801). A major eighteenth century historical painter, William Hamilton studied art in Rome and was apprenticed to Antonio Zucchi. He trained first as an architectural draftsman, but soon moved to theatrical portraits and scenes from plays. He first exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1774, becoming an Associate in 1784 and an Academician in 1789.

Lettered below the image 'Painted by W. Hamilton R.A. / Pubd. as the Act Directs July 20, 1798 by P. W. Tomkins No. 49 New Bond Strt. London / Engraved by P.W. Tomkins Historical Engraver to Her Majesty '.

The image size is 5 1/8 inch x 6 1/2 inch

The etching is in good condition with some foxing in the border and minor defects from handling.