Art of Scaling 1785

Samuel Alken's 1785 print "Art of Scaling" depicts a humorous scene of two men attempting to scale a wall to reach a balcony where two women stand. The print uses dark washes and delicate lines to create a whimsical and somewhat satirical tone. The composition highlights the men's awkward attempt to climb while the women appear unconcerned, suggesting a playful critique of courtship in 18th-century England. The print is a fine example of Alken's work, which often featured humorous and satirical depictions of everyday life. It is currently part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection in New York City.