Bidspirit auction | “Do You Want Any Matches?”

“Do You Want Any Matches?” – Antique 18th-Century English Hand-Colored Engraving - This print is from the celebrated “Cries of London” series by Francis Wheatley (1747–1801). This particular print is plate no. 4, titled “Do you want any Matches?”, and depicts a match seller in the streets of 18th-century London. Printed by Colnaghi & Co in London. This print forms part of Francis Wheatley’s original and best-known series of prints, “Cries of London, ” published between 1793 and 1797. The works were first exhibited as oil paintings at the Royal Academy exhibitions in London between 1792 and 1795. Prints were subsequently produced after the oil paintings. As these beautiful prints enjoyed enormous success, the original publisher (Colnaghi & Co.) issued them separately over several years. The set was later sold as a complete collection comprising 13 engravings. Dimensions: 41 x 31 cm Frame: 58 x 47 cm