Created on 2024-01-27

This image depicts a black-and-white etching divided into four panels, each showing anthropomorphic animals mimicking human activities. The left bottom panel shows animals constructing a building, climbing ladders, and working with materials. The right bottom panel has animals engaged in various forms of aggressive behavior, including wielding weapons. The top left panel shows a group of animals sitting around a table, seemingly in discussion or negotiation, while the top right panel features a group of animals dancing together in pairs. The detailed artwork suggests a satirical take on human society, as the animals are dressed and acting like people. The inscription "Mr. Midnight's Animal Comedians" hints at a theatrical or performance context, and "Published according to Act of Parliament, 1733" refers to the legal authorization for the image's distribution.

Created on 2024-03-30

This image appears to be an engraved illustration depicting various scenes from a theatrical production or performance called "Mr. Midnight's Animal Comedians". The central scene shows a group of performers, possibly dressed in animal costumes, engaging in acrobatic and comedic acts on a stage or platform. Surrounding this central scene are smaller vignettes showing other activities, such as people dining, people working on constructing or repairing something, and people firing a cannon. The overall impression is one of a lively and entertaining performance or production. The style of the engraving is characteristic of the 18th century.