This lot features an antique engraved hand-colored print of George Morland's "The Dairy Farm" published by William Ward. Morland pursued his vision of pastoral contentment in many pictures during the 1790's, many of which were superbly engraved by his brother-in-law, William Ward. These took many forms and the emotional idea at the basis of them has lived on into our era. Here, the young couple with four young children share the twilight hour with their pigs, chickens and dog. This end of day re-union of the family was clearly a kind of sacred moment for Morland, a kind of non-sectarian, rural vespers. George Morland was one of the most successful genre painters of his time, creating, during his industrious career, some of England's most cherished paintings. He was a prodigious painter, producing more than 4000 paintings during the entirety of his career, and sometimes painting two or three works in a day. His beautiful idealistic scenes were a favorite source of inspiration for contemporary engravers, and as many as 250 separate engravings were done of his paintings during his lifetime. His brother-in-law, William Ward, engraved a great number of his paintings reproducing in print his endearing paintings of English country life. Ward's engravings after Morland are some of the most beautiful prints of the period; they combine fine technical skill and inspired artistic imagination to create enduring images that speak of the taste and beauty of the age. Published by J.R. Smith, 31 King Street, Covent Garden [London] November 15, 1788. Color printed mezzotint with added hand color. Excellent Condition. Image Measures 21.875" x 29.75" (includes frame). Please View Photos for Details. Shipping Available.