Do You Want any Matches, plate 4 of The Cries of London, engraved by Anthony Cardon (1772-1813), pub. by Colnaghi & Co., 1794
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About Reproduction
Bring the timeless beauty of Francis Wheatley's Do You Want any Matches, plate 4 of The Cries of London, engraved by Anthony Cardon (1772-1813), pub. by Colnaghi & Co., 1794 into your home with a handmade oil painting reproduction. Carefully recreated on canvas by skilled artists using traditional techniques, this piece captures the delicate brushwork, subtle light, and vibrant color of the original masterpiece. With museum-level quality and rich texture, it brings elegance and artistic depth to any space. Enjoy free shipping and make this masterpiece a part of your personal collection.
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Original Description
The vibrant scene of Do You Want any Matches (Plate 4 of The Cries of London), engraved by Anthony Cardon after Francis Wheatley’s original painting, captures the lively pulse of 18th-century London street life. Wheatley’s sentimental realism, paired with Cardon’s fine engraving technique, immortalizes the humble yet poetic figure of a match-seller leaning forward with earnest appeal. Warm earth tones and delicate shading emphasize the contrast between the seller’s weathered clothing and the soft glow of the matches—a subtle nod to human resilience amid urban hardship. Part of Wheatley’s celebrated Cries of London series, the work exemplifies Georgian England’s fascination with picturesque "street criers," blending genre painting’s narrative charm with the precision of engraving. This series, published by Colnaghi & Co., became an iconic social record, bridging fine art and popular culture. Today, it remains a valuable glimpse into the era’s socio-economic fabric, celebrated for its empathetic humanism and compositional elegance.
For modern interiors, this print’s heritage charm lends itself to both classic and eclectic spaces. Hang it in a wood-paneled study or a minimalist office to create a striking dialogue between old and new; its warm sepia and ochre tones harmonize with leather furnishings, brass accents, or muted contemporary grays. A mid-sized frame (approx. 12x16 inches) ensures visibility without overwhelming smaller walls, while an antique gilt frame would intensify its vintage appeal. Pair it with botanical sketches or other engraved works for a curated gallery wall, or let it stand alone as a focal point above a mantel or console table. The scene’s intimate scale and narrative detail invite closer inspection, making it ideal for spaces where contemplation and conversation thrive—be it a cozy reading nook or a professional lobby. Its blend of historical intrigue and aesthetic warmth bridges centuries effortlessly.
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Lead Time & Shipping
When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.
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Return & Refund
We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.
