Explore the inspiration behind the satirical genius of Thomas Rowlandson and John Nixon
Bath’s vibrant social scene and status as a centre of fashion and leisure in the 18th and early 19th centuries provided the perfect backdrop for the satirical genius of Thomas Rowlandson and John Nixon. Mirror of Mirth: Satire in Bath shines a spotlight on these two artists, exploring the inspirations and cultural contexts behind their humorous works. From Rowlandson’s biting etchings, which poked fun at the excesses of spa culture, to Nixon’s lively watercolours, capturing the quirks of Bath’s high society, their art offers more than just laughs. This article dives into the stories and motivations that shaped their playful portrayals of a city both glamorous and delightfully absurd.