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Race Ground (from An Excursion to Brighthelmstone, made in the year 1789)

1790
Not on view
One of a set of eight aquatints devoted to a journey from London to Brighthelmstone (Brighton), together with attractions of the seaside resort, this print represents a horse race held on a grass course near the sea, watched by spectators on foot, in carriages and in a covered observation stand at right. The related text tells us that, "The Race Ground is exceedingly well adapted to the purpose for which it was intended; an is one of the most beautifully situated spots in the world. The prospect is wonderfully extensive and magnificent. The races are in July.--There are always three fifties, besides several sweepstakes, matches &c. A handsome and convenient stands, sufficiently capacious to receive a great number of spectators, is erected on the course."

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Race Ground (from An Excursion to Brighthelmstone, made in the year 1789)
  • Series/Portfolio: Excursion to Brighthelmstone
  • Artist: Drawn and etched by Thomas Rowlandson (British, London 1757–1827 London)
  • Etcher: Aquatint by Samuel Alken (British, London 1756–1815 London)
  • Author: Related author Henry Wigstead (British, 1745?–1800 Margate)
  • Publisher: G. G. J. & J. Robinson (London)
  • Date: 1790
  • Medium: Etching and aquatint
  • Dimensions: Plate: 10 13/16 × 13 3/4 in. (27.5 × 35 cm)
    Sheet: 13 3/8 × 18 1/2 in. (34 × 47 cm)
  • Classification: Prints
  • Credit Line: Harris Brisbane Dick Fund, 1928
  • Object Number: 28.89(6)
  • Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints

More Artwork

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An Excursion to Brighthelmstone, made in the year 1789, by Henry Wigstead and Thomas Rowlandson...Embellished with Eight Engravings in Aquatinta, from Views Taken on the Road, to, and at that Place
Multiple artists/makers
1790
Migrants, Thomas Rowlandson British, Watercolor
Migrants
Thomas Rowlandson
1780–1827
Going to Ivy Bridge, Thomas Rowlandson British, Watercolor
Going to Ivy Bridge
Thomas Rowlandson
1780–1827
The Sailor's Return from Active Service, Thomas Rowlandson British, Watercolor
The Sailor's Return from Active Service
Thomas Rowlandson
1780–1827
Departure of Blanchard and Jeffries' Balloon from Dover, January 7, 1785, Thomas Rowlandson British, Hand-colored etching
Departure of Blanchard and Jeffries' Balloon from Dover, January 7, 1785
Multiple artists/makers
January 1794

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