Quae Genus Engaged with Jovial Friends; Or–Who Sings Best?

Art Historical Context

"Quae Genus Engaged with Jovial Friends; Or–Who Sings Best?" is a lively hand-colored etching and aquatint from January 1, 1822, created by caricaturist Thomas Rowlandson with text by William Combe, published by Rudolph Ackermann in London, and engraved by J. Diggens. Measuring just 5½ × 8⅝ inches, this intimate print captures the boisterous spirit of Regency-era social gatherings, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department as part of The Elisha Whittelsey Collection. The scene humorously portrays a group of men immersed in drink and merriment, likely locked in a lighthearted singing contest as suggested by the playful title. Rowlandson, a master of satire, delighted audiences with his exaggerated figures and witty observations of everyday vices like overindulgence, often paired with Combe's clever verses in Ackermann's popular publications. This work exemplifies early 19th-century printmaking techniques: etching for sharp lines, aquatint for rich tonal gradients, and meticulous hand-coloring to infuse vibrant life. Such affordable, colorful satires were cultural staples, poking fun at British leisure while reflecting the era's tavern culture and jovial camaraderie—perfect for sparking smiles among museum visitors today!

About the Artist

J. Diggens|Rudolph Ackermann, London|Thomas Rowlandson|William Combe (British|British|British|British) · 1800 |1757 |1764 |1742 –1900 |1827 |1834 |1823

London|British, London 1757–1827 London|British, active 1794–1829|British, London 1742–1823 London