Chesterfield Sent to Coventry, or A Display of Military Education
1842. Pen and ink with watercolor on watermarked J Whatman 1824 paper, 9 x 13 inches (230 x 330 mm), the full sheet. In very good condition with some minor handling wear and soft handling creases. The colors remain fresh and vibrant.
The engraving for which this is a preparatory drawing was eventually published in 1824 by S. W. Fores of 41 Piccadilly, London. The image in its final state is meant to satirize the pompous behavior of the Tenth Hussars while posted in Dublin from May 1823 to July 1824. It reflects the deep negative impression made on the local population during that 14 month period. The full title of the image would become "Chesterfield sent to Coventry, or a Display of Military Education." Chesterfield may be the name of the establishment or club where dancing and card games were available. The officers are "sending the place to Coventry" in the sense that they refuse to take part in the activities. The military education refers to their explanations that the Tenth do not dance, play cards, enjoy music, or take part in duels. "Send to Coventry" is an idiom used in England meaning to deliberately ostracize someone. Typically, this is done by not talking to them, avoiding their company, and acting as if they no longer exist. Coventry is a historical cathedral city in the West Midlands county, UK.
Item number: 1537
Price: $1,000.00
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