A modern chip of the old block [graphic]

"In an ornate foreshortened bed which is the centre of the design, propped against a frilled pillow, is a lady, dismayed at the sight of a grotesque infant which a nurse (right) holds out to her. Her husband (left) is a grotesque dandy, wearing a small top-hat on bunched-out hair, and with a heavy black moustache, and whiskers which meet, projecting from the chin. He inspects the child, looking through an eye-glass in the handle of a riding-switch. The infant is a little replica, heavily bearded, of its father, and holds up a similar switch; it wears a trimmed chemise with spurred boots. The father: Is it possible that I can be the Author of such an Eccentric production. The mother: Oh the little Brute! Who can doubt that when they see the horrid Likeness. The nurse: Brute indeed! why its a perfect angel And the very model of his Pa! Oh who can help Longing to Kiss him. A fashionable interior is indicated."--British Museum online catalogue