The Matthew-orama for 1827–or Cockney Gleanings,–Aint that a good un now?
March 26, 1827
Medium
Etching and aquatint
Dimensions
Plate: 11 3/16 x 15 7/8 in. (28.4 x 40.3 cm) Sheet: 13 3/16 x 17 7/16 in. (33.5 x 44.3 cm)
Classification
Prints
Department
Drawings and Prints
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1917
Accession Number
17.3.888-55
Tags
Art Historical Context
This lively 1827 etching and aquatint captures the playful spirit of London’s theatrical scene during the Regency era. Created by Thomas Howell Jones and published by George Humphrey, the print takes its cue from comedian Charles Matthews, whose popular one-man “At Home” performances—often billed with whimsical titles like “Matthew-orama”—delighted audiences with comic monologues, songs, and impersonations. The subtitle “Cockney Gleanings” hints at the work’s affectionate satire of everyday London life and speech, a favorite subject for printmakers of the period. Etching combined with aquatin...
About the Artist
Thomas Howell Jones|George Humphrey|Charles Matthews (British|British|British) · 1824 |1773 |1776 –1848 |1831 |1835
British, active 1824–48|British, 1773?–1831?|British, London 1776–1835 Devonport