Pen-etration [graphic]

"Caricature portrait of John Penn (1760-1834), miscellaneous writer and grandson of the founder of Pennsylvania. He stands in profile to the left, his feet splayed out, wearing a round hat, gloves, wrinkled Jean de Bry coat (see BMSat 9425), pantaloons tied above the ankles, and heelless slippers with spike toes. In his left hand is a cane. He has a vacant expression with gaping, fish-like mouth and receding chin. A flagged pavement, brick wall, and cast shadows form a background. The title continues: '- NB; This Title has no affinity to Pen, as connected with the Goose-Quill; nor has it any allusion to Penguin, a stupid creature between a Fish & a Fowl; - the word is simply derived from Pen, as the Instrument used to express the deep researches of the mind; see the St James's Street chitchat - respecting a Keen Pen; - a Witty Pen; - & a Pen, often Cut, but never mended.'"--British Museum online catalogue