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Archive Reference / Library Class No.D5459/3/23
Former ReferenceD5459/2/42
TitleA Peep at the Gas Lights
Date[23 Dec 1809]
DescriptionA scene in Cockspur Street following the installation of gas-lighting. On the far left a young man points to one of the lights, and explains to his female companion:
"The coal being steam'd produces tar or paint for the outside of houses - the smoke passing thro water is deprived of substance and burnt as you see".
Next to him an Irish man says:
"Arrah Honey, if this man bring fire thro water we shall soon have the Thames and the Liffey burnt down - and all the pretty little Herrings and Whales burnt to cinders".
A large man looks up at the light and comments:
" [Wauns?] what a main pretty light it be we have nothing like it in our country". His companion, a Quaker, replies: "Aye friend, but it is all Vanity, what is this to the inward light".
Next to them are a prostitute and her client. She complains:
"If this light is not put a stop to we must give up our business. We may as well shut up shop". Her client replies: "True my Dear not a dark corner to be had for love or money".
Available on CD 165.
LevelItem
RepositoryDerbyshire Record Office
ArtistWoodward, George Murgatroyd (?1765-1809)
Engraver: Rowlandson, Thomas (1756-1827)
Archive CreatorGeorge Murgatroyd Woodward (1765-1809), artist and writer
Further Information173

Woodward Del : Rowlandson Scul

The background shows the façade and screen of Carlton House. On an adjacent house, Sherry refers to Sheridan.

Pall Mall was lighted experimentally in 1807, from St James' to Cockspur Street, by Winsor (alluded to in the print by the Irishman). He raised the £50,000 necessary, but made no return on it. Winsor was a promoter with little technical knowledge who gave public demonstrations. Three flame system of lamps became known as the cockspur lamp.

Date based on Walpole 809.12.23.1.1.
Physical DescriptionHand-coloured print. Size 379 x 252 mm.
CopiesA digital copy can also be viewed on the public computers at the record office.
Related MaterialRelated to D5459/3/27.
Publication NoteBM Sat 11440
TermWomen
Prostitution
Image

A Peep at the Gas Lights

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