Peter, the wild boy. Mezzotint by V. Green after P. Falconet.

[London] (Kings Arms Cornhill) : Sold by Ryland, Bryer & Co.

1 print : mezzotint ; image 43.6 x 35.6 cm

Peter the wild boy. ... P. Falconet pinxt. ; Val. Green sculpt. Lettering continues: "In the year 1725, King George the It. hunting in the forest of Herenhawsen this boy was discovered in a hollow tree, he seemed to be about 14, years of age by His Majesty's order he was brought to England, and put to school, but what is most remarkable although he has hearing perfectly he never could be taught to speak or has ever been seen to laugh. He has a pension from the King which is paid to Mr. Thomas Fenns near Berkhampstead in Hertfordshire, where this most extraordinary existance is maintained"; followed by a French translation of the English lettering

J. Chaloner Smith, British mezzotinto portraits, London 1883, vol. 2, p. 577

Alfred Whitman, British mezzotinters: Valentine Green, London 1902, no. 2, pp. 29-30

Wellcome Collection 2102i