Artist: After Francis Wheatley (1747-1801)
Title: The Cry of London
Medium: Engraving
Dimensions: 15 x 10.5 in (38.1 x 26.67 cm)
Condition Report: Light wear on the surface compatible with the item's age, otherwise in good condition
Signature: Signed below

This captivating engraving, The Cry of London, by Francis Wheatley, masterfully captures the lively and dynamic essence of a bustling London street scene. The artist draws the viewer's focus towards the central figures through the use of bright colors, which contrast vividly against the neutral light wash of the background. This technique not only showcases Wheatley's ingenuity but also adds a compelling layer of visual storytelling, guiding the viewer’s eye to the heart of the narrative.

About the Artist: Francis Wheatley was a distinguished English painter and engraver, born in London in 1747. Trained under several notable artists, including Daniel Fournier and William Shipley, Wheatley was an early student of the Royal Academy Schools. His career was marked by a series of successes, including winning multiple prizes from the Society of Arts and being elected a member of the Society of Artists, where he also served as a director.

Wheatley's early works primarily consisted of small-scale portraits and conversation pieces, often featuring figures posed against darker landscapes. His style evolved significantly after returning to London in 1783, where he became renowned for his sentimental scenes inspired by the French artist Greuze and the popular cult of sensibilité. These works, often intended for engraving, depicted bourgeois moralities, domestic realism, and genre scenes, which were widely distributed across both the French and English markets.

Despite his popularity and productivity, Wheatley struggled financially throughout his life, exacerbated by his extravagant lifestyle. His later years were marked by debt and illness, yet he continued to contribute significantly to the art world, notably through his work with John Boydell's Shakespeare Gallery. Wheatley was elected an Associate of the Royal Academy in 1790 and became a full Academician in 1791. He passed away in London in 1801, leaving behind a legacy of works that continue to be celebrated for their charm, technical skill, and emotive storytelling.