Cries of London, No. 4: Do You Want Any Brickdust? 1799

"Cries of London, No. 4: Do You Want Any Brickdust?" is a hand-colored etching by Henri Merke, depicting a street vendor selling brick dust in London. The scene, which is part of a series of prints by the artist, captures the vibrant and bustling life of the city in 1799. Brick dust, a common ingredient in the London of the time, was used to clean and polish floors. The vendor, accompanied by a donkey and a dog, offers his wares to a woman standing outside her home. The woman's expression suggests both curiosity and amusement, highlighting the everyday interactions that took place on London's streets. The print’s details, like the bustling crowd in the background, contribute to a lively and engaging snapshot of London’s street life.