23 May to 20 June 2009
Without Exception! : A selection of original prints by Thomas Rowlandson to ‘The English Dance of Death’ (1815-1816)
Thomas Rowlandson (1756-1827) is Britain’s best-loved draughtsman. As an astute observer of the lively Georgian world that he knew so intimately it seems at first sight that the Dance of Death would have been an uncongenial subject for ‘Rolly’s’ satiric pen and incisive etching needle. However, Rowlandson was to display the true capability of his unique imagination while interpreting the theme in quite an unorthodox manner.
In the middle of the Regency era Rowlandson used the idea of the Dance of Death to make social comment on the cultural life of his day. His drawing style and the medium of the finely etched and subtly coloured print, however, contrasted markedly with the earlier tradition and ‘pictorial’ levity permeates his images.
Here ‘Ladies of the town’ are surprised by Death (always a skeleton) dressed as a Beau, but here also are:
Indeed society, from the exalted to the humble, are depicted confronting their nemesis. Some object “The time’s not right”, some look surprised, some are chagrined, some are ready, but all are depicted with the lighthearted touch of the artist’s pen. Pathos is largely absent in most of the prints. Rowlandson treats the subject, if not in an altogether light-hearted or cavalier fashion then at least in the fatalistic manner, resignedly shrugging his shoulders and saying 'That's life!'.
The selection of prints in the exhibition are considered examples of Rowlandson at his best. The pieces combine his unique artistic facility in line with his inimitable approach to social commentary.
Guildford House Gallery
155 High Street
Guildford
Surrey
GU1 3AJ
Tel: 01483 444742
Fax: 01483 458563
Email: guildfordhouse@guildford.gov.uk
Open Tuesday to Saturday. 10am to 4.45pm. Admission Free