Doing Homage

William Heath (Paul Pry)

Doing Homage

London, T McLean ca. 1828

Etching

Original hand colouring

260 x 370 mm

£240

After the title: “—Thus they, in lowliest plight, repentant bow—Mil[ton]. The Pope sits in a Gothic chair whose back is at an angle with the picture plane: Wellington, in profile to the right, kneels at his feet, supporting the Pope’s right foot, and fervently kisses his toe (as in BM Satires No. 15665). He wears civilian dress, but a plumed cocked hat lies beside him. Peel (left) stands behind, eagerly waiting his turn, his hands together as if in prayer. Each holds a rosary. The Pope, who has a red and vulturine nose, wears a tall tiara.