THALPOLECTRUM PARTURIENS: or the WONDERFULL PRODUCT of the COURT WARMING-PAN. c.1719-66
Engraving | 37.7 x 24.4 cm (sheet of paper) | RCIN 603552
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Engraving of James Francis Edward Stuart and Maria Clementina Sobieski. Whole length portrait of Maria Clementina Sobieski, seated with cap, low bodice and ermine lined robe, holding a warming pan with a portrait of James Francis Edward Stuart inside. To the left, the figure of Cupid supports the pan, and to the right a putti pulls back the background of drapery. With English satirical verses below. Borders trimmed.
This print makes reference to the malicious rumour that James Francis Edward Stuart was smuggled as a baby into his mother's chamber in a warming pan (in Latin 'thalpolectrum'). This story was intended to throw doubt on the prince's legitimacy. The work was acquired by George IV, who had a strong interest in Stuart history.
Not in O'DonoghueProvenance
Purchased by George IV when Prince Regent from Colnaghi & Co, 22 November 1813, for 10s 6d (Royal Archives, GEO/MAIN/27960)
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Medium and techniques
Engraving
Measurements
37.7 x 24.4 cm (sheet of paper)
34.1 x 24.3 cm (image)
Category
Object type(s)