The positive argument [graphic].

Description

Title: The positive argument [graphic].
Contributor: Ryland & Bryer (Firm), publisher.
Published / Created: [1780]
Publication Place: London
Publisher: Sold by Ryland & Bryer, engravers & printsellers, at the Kings Arms Cornhill
Abstract: A pretty young woman sits in a chair as an older clergy man with spectacles kneels seduces her, slipping a gold purse on her lap
Description: Title from caption below image.
Verse in two columns below title begins: "Struggling 'twixt virtue and desire, accosted by a rev'rend sire, behold the pretty maid. How young the lass, how old the man. What then to win by gold's his plan and so she's not afraid. To beauty av'rice lends its key, and law dispenses with its fee, if beauty but consent; then cease, ye lovers, to despair, since a purse melts the stubborn fair, and gains the argument."
Numbered "78" in lower left corner.
Sheet trimmed to plate mark with loss of imprint.
Not in Catalogue of prints and drawings in the British Museum.
No. 53 in a bound in a collection of 69 prints with a manuscript title page: A collection of drolleries.
Bound in half red morocco with marbled paper boards and spine title "Facetious" in gold lettering.
Provenance: From the H.J. Peters sale, Sotheby's, lot 230; December 1960;
Extent: 1 print : sheet 34.4 x 25.2 cm
Language: English

Access: Public
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