1814–1816. The English Dance of Death. Published at R. Ackermann's, 101 Strand.—A selection from Rowlandson's famous illustrations to the Dance of Death; an ingenious series, quite suited, in spite of the grimness of the performance, to the artist's humour. The publication secured great praise during the designer's lifetime; in point of execution the set leaves nothing to be desired; in regard to picturesque action and easy grouping, the illustrations will bear comparison with any of the artist's works. As in the well-known series by Holbein, Della Bella, &c., Death appears at the most unexpected and inopportune moments, with that stern and ghastly reminder of the futility of human pleasures, successes, and pursuits, of which the most playful satirists have never been able to lose sight.
Death, in Rowlandson's series, displays his acknowledged ubiquity; he knocks without ceremony at everyone's portal, and none can deny him admission. Both artist and author seem to have appreciated the resources of their subject so thoroughly, and have worked out its grotesque spirit with such appropriateness, that the Dance of Death must remain a fitting monument of their genius. A large circulation could hardly be anticipated for a work conceived in this realistically fearful vein. Rowlandson has drawn the various episodes which his invention suggested with a completeness of detail rarely found in his later designs, and the plates are executed with the fulness and attention of finished drawings; the figures are delineated with power and spirit, and the backgrounds are most delicate and suggestive. The impressions are also coloured by hand with a judicious eye to effect and harmony. Combe has worked with a vigour worthy of the occasion; and for wit, point, and felicity we are inclined to believe the versification to the Dance of Death surpasses all his other contributions to literature in this branch. The entire series may be accepted as a work of higher character, in all respects, than its popular predecessors, the better recognised Tours of Doctor Syntax; and it is superior, beyond comparison, to the works which followed it.
THE ENGLISH DANCE OF DEATH.
FROM THE DESIGNS OF THOMAS ROWLANDSON.
With Metrical Illustrations by the Author of 'Doctor Syntax.'
LONDON: PUBLISHED AT R. ACKERMANN'S REPOSITORY OF ARTS.
Pallida Mors æquo pulsat pede pauperum tabernas
Regúmque turres.—Hor. lib. i. od. 4.
With equal pace, impartial Fate
Knocks at the palace, as the Cottage Gate.
This series was begun in 1814, and finished in 1816; being issued from the Repository of Arts in monthly parts, like the Tour of Doctor Syntax and successive works.