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The Vision (Picturesque Beauties of Boswell, Part the Second), May 15, 1786
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The Vision (Picturesque Beauties of Boswell, Part the Second), May 15, 1786
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Media ID 19988247
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Apparition Axehead Bed Chamber Bedchamber Bedroom Boswell Boswell James Collings Collings Samuel Collings Samuel I Dream Dreaming Funny James Boswell Kilt Nightmare Picturesque Beauties Of Boswell Rowlandson Rowlandson Thomas Samuel Samuel Collings Samuel Collings I Samuel I Tartan Thomas Rowlandson Tools Vision Scots
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The Vision
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a comical and satirical etching by Thomas Rowlandson, created in May 1786 as part of the "Picturesque Beauties of Boswell" series. This whimsical artwork transports us to an 18th-century bedchamber where James Boswell, the renowned Scottish writer and author, finds himself in a peculiar dream. In this black and white scene, we see Boswell lying in his bed wearing traditional Scottish attire—a kilt made of tartan fabric. His face reveals surprise and confusion as he witnesses a ghostly apparition hovering above him. The ethereal figure holds an axehead with its handle mysteriously disappearing into thin air. Rowlandson's clever satire takes aim at both Boswell's occupation as a writer and the concept of dreams themselves. The artist playfully suggests that even great literary minds like Boswell are not immune to strange visions during their slumber. The detailed etching showcases Rowlandson's skillful use of lines to create texture and depth within the scene. It also highlights his ability to capture humor through exaggerated facial expressions and amusing situations. "The Vision" now resides in The Metropolitan Museum of Art, serving as a testament to Rowlandson's talent for blending artistry with wit. This print offers viewers a glimpse into the imaginative world of 18th-century Britain while reminding us that even esteemed writers can have bizarre nightmares too.
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