Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Museums > Cartoon Museum
Smithfield Sharpers, or the Countryman Defrauded, [April 10, 1787], reissued 1809-1816. Creator: John Keyse Sherwin
![Smithfield Sharpers, or the Countryman Defrauded, [April 10, 1787], reissued 1809-1816. Creator: John Keyse Sherwin](/p/731/smithfield-sharpers-countryman-defrauded-26373471.jpg.webp "Smithfield Sharpers, or the Countryman Defrauded, [April 10, 1787], reissued 1809-1816. Creator: John Keyse Sherwin")
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Smithfield Sharpers, or the Countryman Defrauded, [April 10, 1787], reissued 1809-1816. Creator: John Keyse Sherwin
Smithfield Sharpers, or the Countryman Defrauded, [April 10, 1787], reissued 1809-1816
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 26373471
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Card Game Cards Cheating Exploitation Gambler Gamblers Gambling Gambling Den Game Game Of Cards Georgian John Keyse Sherwin Naive Naivety Rowlandson Thomas Smithfield City Of London England Tables Thomas Rowlandson Unaware Card Sharp Etched Pastime
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> R
> Thomas Rowlandson
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> John White
> Asia
> Georgia
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Boroughs
> City of London
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Museums
> British Museum
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Museums
> Cartoon Museum
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Sights
> British Museum
> North America
> United States of America
> New York
> New York
> Sights
> Metropolitan Museum of Art
EDITORS COMMENTS
Caption: "Smithfield Sharpers, or the Countryman Defrauded" - A Satirical Depiction of Gambling Exploitation in 18th Century Britain This black and white etching by John Keyse Sherwin, titled "Smithfield Sharpers, or the Countryman Defrauded" takes us back to a bustling gambling den in 18th century England. Created in April 1787 and reissued between 1809-1816, this artwork offers a fascinating glimpse into the leisure activities of that era. The scene unfolds around a card game table where unsuspecting countrymen engage in a game of cards with city slickers known as "sharpers". These cunning gamblers use their expertise to cheat and exploit their naive opponents for personal gain. The artist skillfully captures the tension and naivety on the faces of these men, highlighting their unawareness of being deceived. Sherwin's detailed etching showcases Georgian-era furniture and attire while emphasizing social commentary through satire. The cartoonish style adds an element of humor to this cautionary tale about greed and deception prevalent during that time. Now housed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, this print serves as a valuable heritage art piece that sheds light on pastimes enjoyed by people from different walks of life centuries ago. It reminds us how concepts like cheating and exploitation have been part of human nature throughout history. Through Sherwin's work, we are transported to an era where gambling was not only seen as entertainment but also as
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
