William Barrett, Satyr & Mathematician Cartouche Design, 1750, Watercolour

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An original 1750 watercolour painting, William Barrett, Satyr & Mathematician Cartouche Design.This unusual cartouche design, dated 1750, is by the … Read more An original 1750 watercolour painting, William Barrett, Satyr & Mathematician Cartouche Design.This unusual cartouche design, dated 1750, is by the English antiquary and surgeon William Barrett (1733–1789). The image is a curious hybrid of rational mathematics and opposing Dionysian sensuality. Two satyrs encircle the cartouche, punningly winged like the 'satyr' butterfly, holding 3D shapes; the figure in the centre is possibly Euclid, the Greek mathematician often referred to as the 'founder of geometry'. The composition is also a sumptuous example of fluid and scrolling rococo design, with a touch of the grotesque.Barrett is best known for his book 'The History and Antiquities of the City of Bristol', 1789, which he illustrated with copper-plate engravings and opens with a cartouche design similar in style to the present drawing.In grisaille wash on laid paper. Laid down on backing paper.All artworks come with a Certificate of Authenticity and—if it is a collection artwork—its accompanying collection text or artist biography. Signed: Signed lower centre. Dated: Dated lower centre. Height: 9cm (3.5″) Width: 14.5cm (5.7″) Condition: Minor age toning as shown. There are historic hinging tape remnants to the upper corners on the verso, from previous mounting. Presented: Unframed. See less