Palmer, Samuel (1805 – 1881) – ‘The Skylark’ (L.2).

'The Skylark' (L.2). Etching. 1850. State VIII of VIII. As published in 'Etchings of the Art Union of London by the Etching Club', 1857, pl.17. The genesis of this composition can be traced back to a drawing of c.1831/32. Palmer also completed a painting of the subject in c.1839 (National Museum of Wales A361). The work is inspired by the lines from Milton's 'L'Allegro' ... 'To hear the Lark begin his flight / And singing startle the dull night / From his watch-tower in the skies, / Till the dappled dawn doth rise …'. 3.75x3 inches.