The text lists probable expenses of a "batchelor-housekeeper" in comparison with those of a married man. Below the list are four columns of quotations on married bliss from various poets. In the etching, a lady and a gentleman on the left stand with their hands joined before an old man in a robe, with beard and a laurel wreath, who is marrying them. He may be personifying honor. Behind the young couple stand figures personifying health and happiness. Over their heads fly two putti with torches, one holding a wreath over the head of the gentleman. To the right, in front of the old man, is an altar with rolls of paper burning on top of it. Further to the right stands a figure personifying plenty, holding a full cornucopia and pointing to the figure of Virtue who, leaning on a large disk representing sun, holds up a chain attached to the figure of Envy with a snake in her hand and fallen down from the altar steps. Four small children are playing between the figures of Virtue and Plenty and in front of a high pedestal on which stands the figure of Hymen
Alternative Title:
Apology for matrimony
Description:
Imprint from illustration., Broadside illustrated at top of sheet with an etching by Gravelot (plate 16.8 x 23.8 cm.)., Companion broadside to Fore-warn'd, fore-arm'd, or, The batchelor's monitor. [London] : John Osborn, 1741., Not in the Catalogue of prints and drawings in the British Museum. Division I, political and personal satires., and Temporary local subject terms: Literature: quotation from John Milton, 1608-1674 -- Literature: quotation from Alexander Pope, 1688-1744 -- Literature: quotation from Thomas Otway, 1652-1685 -- Literature: quotation from Nicholas Rowe, 1674-1718 -- Literature: quotation from John Dryden, 1631-1700 -- Literature: quotation from Aaron Hill, 1685-1750 -- Literature: quotation from James Shirley, 1596-1666 -- Personifications -- Mythology.
Publisher:
Published according to act of Parliament by John Osborn in Pater-Noster Row
