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1. After Sir Joseph Noel Paton, 1821–1901

Image information

Description

The Pursuit of Pleasure (A Vision of Human Life)

Mixed method engraving by Henry T. Ryall (1811–1867). Bears title and extensive inscription. Published by Alexander Hill, 1864. 25 x 39 3⁄4 inches.

£1,400

Additional Description
By the key sold with the engraving: The sensuous figure of Pleasure (crowned with poppies, with the wings of a Death's Head Moth) is most closely pursued by an Ecclesiastical dignitary, a son of toil, a ruler, a youth of luxury, and a man of genius. They trample an innocent girl and an unwedded mother. After them comes a reeling Bacchanal supported by three unthinking daughters of vanity. Behind them in a third wave are the votary of military glory and conquest, spattered with blood and treading humanity under their feet, with a trumpeter and a soldier dragging a captive behind. Above them is a damsel borne up by a fool and a gallant. After them, a miser - but above him is a loving couple and another figure who are turning back. Last comes the tyrant king, blindly brandishing a sword. Hovering above, book open and sword uplifted, is the Angel of Judgement, who witnesses their wicked pursuit of Pleasure and inevitable fall into the yawning chasm.