Metallic Tractors
This small copy of a Gillray satire of November 11, 1801 appeared in the periodical "London and Paris" in 1803. The image centers on Dr. Elisha Perkins, an American inventor who claimed that electrified metallic tractors he invented could cure various diseases. Elisha's son Benjamin advertised the device from the house of John Hunter, 18 Leicester Square in London between 1798 and 1802 and Dr. Perkins here applies them to boils on the nose of a man who may be intended to represent John Bull.
Published in Weimar between 1798 and 1815, "London and Paris" reported on cultural and political events in England and France and included reproductions of British and French prints, including many satires and caricatures. These often appeared soon after their initial publication date.
Published in Weimar between 1798 and 1815, "London and Paris" reported on cultural and political events in England and France and included reproductions of British and French prints, including many satires and caricatures. These often appeared soon after their initial publication date.
Artwork Details
- Title: Metallic Tractors
- Series/Portfolio: London und Paris, vol. IX, pl. VIII
- Artist: After James Gillray (British, London 1756–1815 London)
- Subject: Dr. Elisha Perkins (American, 1741–1799)
- Date: 1802
- Medium: Hand-colored etching and aquatint
- Dimensions: plate: 6 7/8 x 8 15/16 in. (17.5 x 22.7 cm)
sheet: 8 1/16 x 9 15/16 in. (20.5 x 25.2 cm) - Classification: Prints
- Credit Line: Gift of William H. Huntington, 1883
- Object Number: 83.2.1149
- Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints
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Multiple artists/makers
June 13, 1781
Multiple artists/makers
[1830]
James Gillray
June 19, 1780
Multiple artists/makers
after April 1785
James Gillray
Hannah Humphrey
July 16, 1805
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