Lot Essay
The electors of Middlesex were notorious in the late 18th century for their improper rule and the title Elector of Middlesex became synonymous with unprofessional and scandalous office.
'A New Elector in Germany'
Details
George Moutard Woodward (1760-1809)
'A New Elector in Germany'
signed 'Woodward Delin.' (lower left), and inscribed 'Hello! you Master Whiskers - dont keep me here in the cold all night - If you want to know who I am - I tell you I am Elector for Middlesex!-' (upper left) and 'Ellector of Middlesex!! - I never heard of that Elector before, he must be a great man - open the gates immediately.' (upper right)
pencil, the first with watercolour, the second with pen and grey ink, grey and brown wash
7½ x 9.7/8 in. (19 x 25 cm.); 'An Arithmetician'; and 'The Dutchman's Creed' by the same hand (3) (2)
'A New Elector in Germany'
signed 'Woodward Delin.' (lower left), and inscribed 'Hello! you Master Whiskers - dont keep me here in the cold all night - If you want to know who I am - I tell you I am Elector for Middlesex!-' (upper left) and 'Ellector of Middlesex!! - I never heard of that Elector before, he must be a great man - open the gates immediately.' (upper right)
pencil, the first with watercolour, the second with pen and grey ink, grey and brown wash
7½ x 9.7/8 in. (19 x 25 cm.); 'An Arithmetician'; and 'The Dutchman's Creed' by the same hand (3) (2)
Provenance
with Albany Gallery, London.