'My Aunt!' hand-coloured caricature, inspired by Francis Grose's Olio. Published 1815

'My Aunt': humorous caricature of a maiden aunt. Engraving with original hand-colouring. Very rare. 

Engraved caption reads as follows:

'Formerly there existed in the families of most unmarried men or widowers of the rank of gentlemen, residents in the country, a certain antiquated female either maiden or widow, commonly an aunt, or a cousin. Her dress I have now before me; it consisted of a stiff starched cap and hood, a little hoop, a rich silk damask gown, with large flowers. She lent on an ivory headed crutch cane, and was followed by a fat phthysicky dog of the pug kind, who commonly reposed on a cushion, and enjoyed the privilege of snarling at the servants, and occasionally biting their heels with impunity.By her side hung a large bunch of keys, securing various cordials and medicines.The daily business of this good old lady was to scold the maids, collect eggs, feed the turkeys, and assist at all lyings in that happened within the parishbut alas this being is no more to be seen, and her race like that of the black rat is totally extinct! (Groses Olio.)'

London, published March the 1st 1815 by William Holland, Cockspur Street.

Sheet measures 38 x 27 cm.

Light surface dusting. Two small pieces of paper tape adhering to the top margin of the verso. Generally, in very good antiquarian condition. A marvelous period piece.