Antique Image of the Day: Mr. MGrimaldi and Son, as Clowns

Mr. Grimaldi and Son, as Clowns
Early Nineteenth Century
Byn and Arliss
The Victoria & Albert Museum

Little is known about this print from the late Eighteenth to early Nineteenth Century except that it depicts Joseph Grimaldi and his son. Grimaldi, senior, known professionally as “Joey the Clown” was celebrated for his work in pantomime as was the younger Grimaldi. Both, however, met sad ends after struggled with alcoholism. Printed in London, this is the work of an artist known as “Byn” and was printed by Arliss & Co.