Morning, or, the Man of Taste 1802 - 1811

Henry William Bunbury made this print, "Morning, or, the Man of Taste," using etching and engraving techniques, finished with watercolor. These are intaglio processes, where lines are incised into a metal plate, allowing for detailed and reproducible imagery. The linear quality of the printmaking captures the satire, focusing on the social rituals around food and class. The artist's hand is evident in the precise drawing, while the labor of the printers who made multiple impressions is less visible. The added color by hand suggests a limited run, adding to the print's value as a collectible. The print critiques the excesses of the wealthy. Servants are shown in the act of service, emphasizing their role in maintaining the lifestyle of the elite. Consider, too, the socio-economic systems in place that made the exotic ingredients on display readily available to the British elite. Paying attention to materials and processes allows us to see not just the image, but also the social dynamics of its time, and the skilled work required to produce it.