Isaac Cruikshank Late 18th.Century Watercolour Drawing "I Can Call Spirits From The Vasty Deep" Owain Glyndŵr Shakespeare Henry IV Circa.1790

Isaac Cruikshank 1756-1811. British School 18th.Century. Watercolour drawing. "I can call Spirits from the vasty deep" Inscribed to the reverse with Shakespearean information: Henry IV Part 1 Act 3 Scene 1 Line 53. Provenance: With Chris Beetles London. Illustrators, The British Art Of Illustration 1800-1991.No.1. Private Collection UK. 20.5 by 17 cms image. 45 by 42 cms framed overall. A fabulous watercolour drawing by the Scottish artist Isaac Cruikshank, the title is a quote from Shakespeare where the character of Owain Glyndŵr, the Welsh hero boasts of his magical powers. In this drawing the wizard like figure of Glyndŵr, summons "spirits" to assist in his rebellion against the English King Henry. The monstrous figures emerge from the water, a skeleton clutches a bag labelled Diamonds, one a plate of gold coins and another a golden casket. Isaac Cruikshank was a leading figure in the "Golden Age" of British caricature. He is known for his sharp social and political commentary and as the father of the illustrators George and Robert. His work typically features expressive, exaggerated faces and detailed watercolor washes.