very closely. Hence we have the rather interesting “variations.” He by-and-bye re-engraved Seymour’s seven, copying them with wonderful exactness, and finally substituted two of his own for those of the condemned Buss. The volume, therefore, was furnished with seven Seymours, and their seven replicas, the two Buss’s, their two replicas, and the thirty-three “Phiz” pictures, each with its “variation.”
These variations are very interesting, and even amusing. On an ordinary careless glance one would hardly detect much difference—the artist, who seemed to wish to have a certain freedom, made these changes either to amuse himself or as if resenting the monotony of copying. In any case they represent an amount of patient labour that is quite unique in such things.
The Pickwickian “student” may be glad to go with us through some of the plates and have an account of these differences. We must premise that the first state of the plates
may be considered “proofs before letters”—the descriptive titles being only found in the later editions.
1. “The Frontispiece.” (We shall call the second state b, the first a.) In a the signature “Phiz,” “fct.” or “fecit” is on the left, in b it is divided half on each side. The harlequin painting has a full face in a, a side face in b. The face at the apex of the picture has a mouth closed in b, and open in a. There are variations in nearly all the grotesque faces; and in b the faces of Mr. Pickwick and Sam are fuller and more animated. In b the general treatment of the whole is richer.
2. “The Title-page.” In a the sign has Veller, in b Weller. Old Weller’s face in b is more resolved and animated; in a water is flowing from the pail.
3. “Mr. Pickwick Addressing the Club.” Mr. Pickwick in b is more cantankerous than in a—all the faces scarcely correspond in expression, though the outlines are the same. The work, shading, etc., is much bolder in b.
4. “Scene with the Cabman.” Very little difference between the plates, save in the spectacles lying on the ground. These are trivialities.
5. “The Sagacious Dog.” b is more heavily shaded, but a is much superior in the dog and face of the sportsman. Trees in b more elaborate.
6. “Dr. Slammer’s Defiance.” The figures on the top of the stairs are much darker and bolder in b. Jingle’s and Tupman’s faces are better in b than in a, and Jingle’s legs are better drawn in b.