Matrimonial-Harmonics c. 1805

"Matrimonial-Harmonics" is a satirical hand-colored etching by English artist James Gillray, created around 1805. The print depicts a scene of domestic chaos in a middle-class home, with the wife attempting to play the piano, while her husband ignores her and reads a newspaper. The wife’s frustrated expression and the chaos in the room highlight the artist’s commentary on the realities of marriage in the early 19th century. Gillray was known for his sharp social commentary and use of caricature, which were highly popular during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This print is housed at the Art Institute of Chicago.