- 2 Frassetto Way - Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
The Peter Benchley Collection: Jaws, A Life of Writing, A Legacy of Ocean Conservation.
Lot 24:
Description
Isaac Robert Cruikshank (British, 1789-1856). Hand-colored etching, Funeral of the Constitution, 1829. This satirical caricature parodies the gravedigger scene from Act V of Shakespeare’s Hamlet to address the Catholic Emancipation crisis in Britain. The scene depicts the symbolic burial of the British Constitution under a pall marked Magna Carta and Bill of Rights, with figures representing contemporary politicians including Robert Peel. The print exhibits clear impression quality with a visible plate mark and vibrant hand-applied coloring. Sight: 10 x 13 3/4 in. Frame: 17 1/2 x 21 1/4 in.
Peter greatly admired Samuel Johnson’s wit and was always keen to find satirical prints from the mid-eighteenth century. He bought this Cruikshank etching and the Hogarth and Gillray prints in Lots 29 and 30 during trips to London.
From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.
Condition report:
The print exhibits light overall toning to the paper. Several minor scattered foxing spots are visible in the upper sky area of the composition. The hand-coloring remains well-preserved and bright. The modern frame shows minor surface wear and small nicks to the gilt finish.
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