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Wheatley’s Cries of London

January 26, 2011
by the gentle author

Two Bunches a Penny, Primroses, Two Bunches a Penny!

Francis Wheatley exhibited his series of oil paintings entitled the “Cries of London” at the Royal Academy between 1792 and 1795. Two year earlier, the forty-one year old painter had been elected to the Academy in preference to the King’s nominee and, as a consequence, he never secured any further commissions for portraits from the aristocracy. Losing his income entirely, what should have been the crowning glory of his career was its unravelling – Wheatley was declared insolvent in 1793 and struggled to make a living until his death in 1801, when the Royal Academy paid his funeral expenses.

Yet in the midst of this turmoil, Wheatley created these sublime images of street sellers that – although seen at the time as of little consequence beside his aristocratic portraits – are now the works upon which his reputation rests. Born in Covent Garden in 1747, Wheatley was ideally qualified to portray these hawkers because he grew up amongst them and their cries, echoing in the streets around the market. You will recognise the old stone pillars of the market buildings that still stand today in a couple of these pictures, all of which could be located specifically in that vicinity.  However, these pictures are far from social reportage as we understand it, and you may notice a certain similarity between many of the women portrayed in these pictures, for whom it is believed Mrs Wheatley –  herself a painter and exhibitor at the Royal Academy – was the model. Look again, and you will also see that variants on the same ginger and white terrier occur throughout these paintings too.

In spite of the idealised quality of these pictures, I am drawn to these “Cries of London,” as a project that places working people at the centre of the picture, and represents them as individuals of stature and presence. The body language of subservience is only present when customers are in the frame, as you will see in the Knife Grinder and Cherry Seller below, whilst the lone Strawberry Seller, Match Seller and Primrose Seller all gaze out at us with assured status, as our equals. Taking this a stage further, the final three pictures, the Ballad Seller, the Gingerbread Seller and the Turnip Seller portray sellers and customers meeting eye to eye – dealing on a level – and with a discernible erotic charge in the air.

Although coming too late to save his career, Wheatley was well served by his engravers who created the prints which brought recognition for his “Cries of London,” as the most beautiful and most popular series of prints on this subject of all time, with editions still available into the early twentieth century. In fact, when I examined this set in the archive of the Bishopsgate Institute, I realised that many were familiar to me from chocolate boxes and biscuit tins, and once glimpsed in frames in the houses of elderly relatives and the seaside hotels of my childhood.

Luigi Schiavonetti, born in Bassano in 1765, engraved the first three plates, the Primrose Seller, the Milk Maids and the Orange Seller, with lush velvety stippled tones – a style that was maintained by the three subsequent engravers (Cardon, Vendramini and Gaugain), when Schiavonetti became too successful and expensive for such a modest project. The “Cries of London” were sold at  seven shillings and sixpence for a plain set and sixteen shillings coloured, and the fact all thirteen were issued is itself a measure of their popularity.

It touches me to understand that Francis Wheatley chose to paint these “Cries of London” at the time he was losing grip of his life, struggling under the pressure of increasing debt, because they cannot have been an obvious commercial proposition. And I like to surmise that these graceful images celebrate the qualities of the ordinary working people, which Wheatley experienced first-hand, growing up in Covent Garden, and chose to witness in this subtly political set of pictures, existing in noble contrast to the portraits of aristocratic patrons who had shunned him when he was in need.

One cold Winter’s morning, tracing my way through the narrow alleys at the heart of the City of London recently, I came upon singing and it stopped me in my tracks. This was a recording of the “Cries of London,” installed there by a composer, and it was a welcome reminder of the beauty of these songs, exploiting the acoustics of the City to elegant and haunting effect. Already a year has passed since the newspaper sellers went, seemingly un-noticed, and now it lifts my spirits to hear the fruit seller in Sclater St Market each Sunday with his distinctive rhythmic cry, “Bananas, bananas, bananas,”  – because in my mind this is the very last reverberation of that vast symphony of many thousands of voices echoing down the centuries and through the streets of London to our present day. The Cries of London.

Milk Below! – This is believed to be the origin of the more recent milkman’s cry,  “Milko!”

Sweet China Oranges, Sweet China.

Do you want any matches?

New Mackerel, New Mackerel

Knives, Scissors & Razors to Grind.

Fresh Gathered Peas, Young Hastings.

Round & Sound, Five Pence a Pound, Duke Cherries.

Strawberrys, Scarlet Strawberrys.

Old Chairs to Mend.

A New Love Song, only Ha’pence a Piece.

Hot Spiced Gingerbread, Smoking Hot.

Turnips & Carrots, ho!

Francis Wheatley R.A. looks askance.

Images copyright © Bishopsgate Institute

You may like to take a look at

John Thomas Smith’s Vagabondiana of 1817

Adam Dant’s  New Cries of Spittlefields

99 Responses leave one →
  1. January 26, 2011

    Lovely to see these and a lovely post. I didn’t know the story behind The Cries of London. I have prints of some of them and had them up in my living room until I recently moved. I’ll have to find a place for them again!

  2. January 26, 2011

    Fantastic post – thank you.

  3. Freda Van Winkle permalink
    February 19, 2011

    I dressed as the Primrose Seller and presented at least a dozen programs giving information about each of Francis Wheatley’s 13 Cries in earlier years.
    I have all 13 plates (Adams porcelaine plates)and always made reference that Yardley of London Cosmetic Co. adopted The Primrose Seller as their trademark in 1913 ,removing the roses and filling the basket with sheaves of lavendar. She became the lavendar seller for Yardley to the point people almost forgot that in the original painting the models sell yellow primroses.

    Enjoyed you comments and prints. Glad I found this as I’m giving a program for our local Chautauqua Club in May.
    Did you realize the term “Holy Mackerel” came from the fact fish was the only commodity could be sold on Sun. because couldn’t hold it over until Mon. Thus the phrase,”Holy Mackerel.
    It took me awhile to realize “Young Hastings” was a variety of peas not referring to the youngster.

  4. David Gabriel permalink
    March 14, 2011

    A fascinating post about this series of prints. Some 60 years ago my Late Father came across a complete set of these prints in some shop (or it may have been in an auction house) in South India, in the Nilgiri Hills, and he bought the series.

    However what he bought were stamped as being ‘artists proofs’ though the artist who signed the coloured prints was either T Petitjean or F Petitjean

    I understand that the original series Cries of London was so popular that other artists copied Wheatley’s original works.

  5. Karen Mccabe permalink
    April 11, 2011

    I have two cries of London, DO YOU WANT ANY MATCHERS 4th plate engraved and Two bunch a penny this one is 1973 but has no plate number, it is written on the left side and say first plate of the cries of London. it is engraved . please can you tell me if I should get them insured . thank you karen

  6. carol atkin permalink
    May 5, 2011

    on the reverse of my print it says this print is one of four which yardley of london limited have had specailly produced from the famous set of fourteen engravings etc, does this mean it is worth anything?

  7. May 24, 2011

    Some years ago, a local gift shop, The Carriage House, was closing, and I saw these thirteen prints. I knew nothing about them but was fascinted. Risking (for me!) s goodly sum of money, I bought them. We have kept six on the wall of the stairs going up to the bedrooms, rotating with others occasionally. We love them, and your beautiful site has helped us treasure them even more. Many thanks.

    One the back of the frames is typed (some too faded to read):
    Subject: [Title of eadh print], after Francis Wheatley R A
    Engraving: Oure mezotint by Edward Stodart. There is a reference number, and says they are published by The Museum Gallaries, 26 Museum St, London, and framed 110 Meadow St,
    Fort BOMBAY

  8. Mary MacLennan permalink
    July 18, 2011

    I have 3 plates from my mother:Sweet China Oranges, Old Chairs to Mend, and Milk Below Maids. As my mother’s maiden name was Wheatley, I naturally now wonder of the connection! She was Emily Dix Wheatley born in Toronto, Canada-

  9. Jayne Kozal permalink
    August 7, 2011

    Hello – From what I’ve read on your post, these images have been used to sell candies, etc., in the past, so this means that they are copyrighted, correct? Your comment would be appreciated. -JK

  10. Yvonne permalink
    August 13, 2011

    I bought for Cries of London at a yard sale. How do I find out if they are worth anything?

  11. Colin permalink
    August 29, 2011

    I have a the picture “New Mackrel” Maquereux Frais et Gros “Cries of London”
    does this have any value? would be interested to find out please.

  12. September 4, 2011

    we have 2 colored engravings by F. Wheatley, one is milk below maids and the other is new mackrel new mackrel of cries of london. milk below maids is plate 2 and new mackrel new mackrel is plate 3. how could we find the value of these and if they need to be insured?

    we love them

  13. Catharine permalink
    November 9, 2011

    I have the full set of thirteen which I believe to be the original coloured engravings. I cannot really find out the value of them as there seems to be so many reproductions and this seems to cloud my research. Should I insure these as they are just now under home contents? If so, what would the value be?

  14. Sandra Sommers permalink
    November 9, 2011

    I have two prints of the “Cries of London” Plate 4 and 11.signed by Cordon.Could you tell me if they are of value.I am looking to sell them any suggestions?Thank you.

  15. Lauren permalink
    November 13, 2011

    I was fascinated to read your article on the Wheatley prints. I have in my possession a print of #4, Do you want any matches? It looks as if it is in its original framing,and in the matting there is printed D’Apres A. Cordon. What significance is this, as it does not have the Petit Jean as the colorist? There is also a marking on the back that says Mcrad, ORDER No. PICTURE No., and the picture No. is written in pencil as 876. I was given this by my grandmother before she passed, and I am wondering if I should have it insured, and for what amount. Thank you for your time and attention!

  16. carol permalink
    November 22, 2011

    I have recently aquired plate 2 milk below maids, schiavonetti sculp quiveut dulaitil est tout chaud, and plate 5 new mackrel,new mackrel , d’pre’s n.schiavnetti,jun. maquereux,maquereax frais et gros, i would like as much information as possible on these as possible, i do not know where to begin. thank you

  17. November 30, 2011

    I like many readers have a couple of vintage prints some flock but definately early 20th Century I was curious of value. One is Want any Matches? the other Milk Below. Thanks for your time.

  18. Helen Donnelly permalink
    December 18, 2011

    A few years ago I came across a pile of pictures,dumped,had a look and they were all these beautiful pictures of “The Cries of London”.I put them away to put in my kitchen when it was finished,they have been on my kitchen table since september and Ive only just got around to cleaning them and putting them up,Ive always been curious about them and this morning went online to see if I could find any information on them,I was delighted to find so much info on them.I have Plate 1,3,4,5,6,8,9,10,11,and 12.I look forward to seeing what Plate 2 and 7 look like.Thanking you.

  19. Kebbeth Mirfield permalink
    January 14, 2012

    Hi I have just purchased 6 Cries of London which appear very old they are in woood oak ftames and the y have wood on the back of them how can I tell if this are of aby value also I bought them because I jusy fell in love with them I have 7,8,9,10,11,13

  20. michael azzopardi permalink
    March 8, 2012

    I have all the set of twelve[Cries of LONDON] painted by F. Wheatly and on the
    left hand side of the paintings there are the french word ‘D’APRES’AND A NAME.

    CAN SOMEONE TELL ME WHAT THAT MEAN,PLEASE

    regards –michael[malta]

  21. Angela Drew permalink
    March 21, 2012

    I HAVE 2 PLATES “CRIES OF LONDON” I HAVE PLATE TWO MILK BELOW MAIDS; ALSO PLATE NINE STRAWBERRYS SCARLET STRAWBERRYS . IT HAS F.WHEATLEY ON LEFT HAND SIDE ALSO IT HAS D.APRES V? ON THE RIGHT HAND I CANT MAKE OUT WHAT IT SAYS. I WANTED TO KNOW WHAT THE VALUE IS. THEY ARE IN A GOLDISH FRAME. PLEASE LET ME KNOW ASAP!! THANKS HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY. IVE HAD THESE PICTURES FOR 25 YEARS NOW THEY BELONGED TO MY GRANDMOTHER SHE SAID SHES HAD THEM FOR 35 YEARS SOOOOOOO…??????? IM VERY CURIOUS LOL

  22. Scilla Cullen permalink
    April 13, 2012

    I have collected 13 of the 14 engravings he made very cheaply in markets and on EBay. However I believe the 14th is of a lavendar seller and the copyright to this was bought by the English Lavendar Company (Yardleys?)and is not available as a print.

  23. James Johnsen permalink
    June 16, 2012

    I just bought an engraving done by wheatlley engraved by anniss Repairing for market does anyone know anything about this

  24. Kay Ellis permalink
    July 28, 2012

    My mother In-Law recently passed away and we have two prints of F Wheatly. One print is called County Girl Going to Market and the other The Country Girl Going a Reaping. Down on the left side of prints, it says Printed by F Wheatly across on the right side it says, F Bartolozzi along the bottom it says “Specially re-engraved for Pears Annual 1915”.

    Just wondering if there is any value and if they should be insured.
    Any information would be appreciated.

    Thank you

  25. darlene jenkins permalink
    July 28, 2012

    I have a book Cries of London Francis Wheatley, RA 1747-1801 with introduction by Stanford Rayner published by the art plublishing co london forty-two shillings net. made and printed in great britain by bemrose & sons ltd derby At the bottom of the preface page hythe august 1929 What is the value of the book?

  26. Kathleen Thalasinos permalink
    August 9, 2012

    I have 2 of the Wheatley “Cries of London”.One is “A New Love Song only ha’penny apiece Plate 2 and “Strawberrys Scarlet Strawberry” Plate9. They have emotional value but do they carry any monetary value. I am planning on framing them so I needed to know in order to figure out what avenue to take in terms of framing cost. Thank toy

  27. Martyn Judd permalink
    August 15, 2012

    I have just brought two prints of the cries of London one is a framed print of china oranges and the other is a wall plate of the round pound cherries. I was thinking of selling them on but I’ve fallen in love with them, and after seeing this sight and reading the background behind the pictures and some of the comments I think I’m going to keep them and see if I can find some more. They have a real charm to them .

  28. Catherine Circus permalink
    August 29, 2012

    I bought “Two bunches a penny primroses” @ an auction well over 15 years ago. The painting was in a big lot,which I hastily rummaged through. I kept it. It hung in my dining room for a number of years. Sold home and it now sits on a pile of books in my bedroom. i look at it before switching off hte lights @ night time and stare @ it first thing the mornings. On left hand of painting reads, ” Painted by F. Wheatley R. A. On right side bottom it reads “Engraved by L. Schiavonetti” Further down middle ” Two bunches a penny primroses twoo bunches a penny. Then a French translation on the right hand side. Further down @ left bottom reads “first plate of the Cries of London”. In the middle “London Pub in the Act Directs July2 by Calnaghi and Co. N 132 Pall Mall1793. A French translation to the right. What is this beautiful painting worth? All constructive suggestions would be considered. Please, contact me asap. Thank you.

  29. September 11, 2012

    I have the original painting by Francis Wheatley.. (Cries of London) “Turnips & Carrots”. I’m hoping to get it appraised..I live in Stafford, Va. and cannot find anyone to help me…please email me if you can help me out..Thank you lots!!! Donna…

  30. Margaret Boyce permalink
    October 4, 2012

    I have just been given a copy of these pictures, with music for piano and voice arranged by Fitzgerald Slade. As a music teacher I have always been fascinated by this area of our past history, both historically as well as the tunes. By sheer coincidence, I have recently done a lot of research on the Spitalfields area with a view to taking a walk around. I see the cries in the illustrations are also written in French. Am I right in supposing they were cried bi-lingually due to the immigrant population of silk weavers living in the area at the time, some of whom perhaps were also sellers of produce around the streets?

  31. barb vollmer permalink
    October 29, 2012

    I have 3 Cries of London that were my mothers. My husband wants to throw them away. Just trying to get an idea of value. First one is Cries of London Plate l Two bunches a penny primroses, Second one Turnips and Carrots plate 13 and Third oneStrawberrys, Scarlet Strawbery Plate 9. Would love any type of general value on these before my husband successfully disposes of them.

  32. Laura o Connor permalink
    November 19, 2012

    I was hoping you could help me finding out value of my 2 cries of London pictures. My mum has 2 and was throwing them out but I think they could be of value to someone it’s plate 2 and plate 5 thank you.

  33. January 16, 2013

    I have two of the paintings by F. Wheatly R. A. One is Do you want my matches? Marchande d Allumettes.achete’ mes.bonnes. Cries of London. Palate # 4. Engraved by A Cordon On the bottom it says London Pub 1794 july. and some other writing .
    The other one is palate # 10 painted by F Weatley, engraved by Vendramini September 1795 by colnoghi & C:M:132 Pall Mall on the back of each one the number penciled 77-32 appear on the top left. on the bottom center it is plated Antiqued Custom Collection H. Hal Kramer Co. Chicago I would like to know if there is any value to them. They are in mint condition Beautiful Please let me know as soon as possible Thankyou

  34. January 26, 2013

    I purchased at a estate auction the following Plate 4 & Plate 2, on the lower left each reads, Printed By F. Wheatly R.A and the lower right reads Depres A Cardon. The prints have been matted and framed, so I can not view any information that might be on the back of the print. Can you help in letting me know their value if any at this time. Thank you

  35. isobel thacker permalink
    February 12, 2013

    I have a print of chairs to mend””””dated 1904, a small piece of paper 0n the back marked in a square marked s p c k made in great britain C. 1904. i think it was bought in london after the first world war when my aunt was working in london as a sister in a hospital there, do you think it has a value, it has a glass frame bound in old passapatoo 4inches by 5 inches.

  36. Teresa Bainter permalink
    February 13, 2013

    I have two of these “Cries of London” etchings framed that I inherited. I have an appraisal from 1978 that was $275.00 in value. Do you know what they are worth today? If not, where would I begin to search this? I don’t know a lot about art. I did very much enjoy reading the information you posted about these etchings!

  37. Joe Martin permalink
    April 2, 2013

    I have four Cries of London:
    1 Engraved by Schiavanetti: Milk below Maids;
    2 Engraved by Vendiamini: Hot Spice Gingerbread Smoking Hotel & Old chairs to mend
    1 Engraved by Gaugain: Turnips and Carrots ho

    I’ve had them a while and am interested in establishing the value of each.. Looks as though alll have been colored by hand.

  38. zambon letizia permalink
    April 8, 2013

    Buona sera,possiedo 2 stampe comperate 30 anni fa da un antiquario,la 1° sotto sta scritto:painted troy f.wheatley r.a. d’apres schiavonetti . plate 2
    la 2° painted by f.wheatley r.a. cries & f. london d’apres g.vendramini. plate 6.
    vorrei sapere cortesemente il suo valore. grazie attendo risposta.

  39. Paul Woods permalink
    May 5, 2013

    I have a cries of London print Hot spice gingerbread engraved by Vendramini. It is a lovely piece of work but I have seen this image with different backgrounds and a different number of women. My one has 2 older girls whereas others only have 1. Why is this?

  40. Diane Harper permalink
    May 25, 2013

    Dear Sir,
    I have two color prints:

    Milk below Maids – Plate 2 – Quient du laitil set tout chid
    Painted by F. Wheatley on left,. Dapres Schiavonalli(?) on right
    Printed in England A. Vivian Mansell & Co Ltd and

    Hot Spice Gingerbread Smoking Hot! Cries of London Plate 12 – Du Croquet de Pain d’Epices! Painted by F. Wheatley on left,. Dapres Vendramum(?) on right
    Printed in England AVM & Co Ltd

    From what I have read, they may have some value. They are in old chipped frames and I am considering having them reframed if you think it is worth doing. Thank you for your thoughts and any advice.

  41. lisa hines permalink
    August 7, 2013

    I found a black & white scarlet strawberries drawing signed by Thomas g. Appleton does anyone have any information about it?

  42. lisa hines permalink
    August 10, 2013

    The black & white scarlet strawberry signed by Thomas Appleton has a seal that says print sellers association DIL can’t find any info help

  43. Elaine Fahey permalink
    August 20, 2013

    I have 4 Wheatly prints colored by F.Petitjean that my husband received , the

    copyright reads Henry Graves , London. Would like some idea of value &
    other info & also if having new mats would hurt them .

  44. VIKKI GOLD permalink
    September 8, 2013

    I HAVE a plate of “Two Bunches A Penny Primrose” with the name of Adams, as I believe to be the manufacture of the plate. There are two markings on the back of the plate…to the right of the top is …17. Then to the middle left is a marking, either 23 or 25. Is this of a particular value or does this identify the time frame of when it was produced?

    Any information would be appreciated.

  45. Thea Warwick permalink
    November 8, 2013

    50 years ago I bought 13 framed crys of London in a auction in mezzatint signed by Edward Stodart.The images and the subtle colours are beautiful and I never tire looking at them.
    I wonder how much they are worth.

    Would you be able to advice me.

  46. November 11, 2013

    I have Cries of London plate 11 Painted by E Wheatley R.A Engraved by A Cardon dated March 1796 A New Love Song only halfpenny a piece is this worth anything .

  47. c garner permalink
    November 14, 2013

    I have a painting of cries of london flower seller in brass round frame the painting has clips on the back were the painting looks like it can be removed it is signed f wheatley do you have any infomation about the value please.

  48. Bill Donnelly permalink
    November 17, 2013

    To Whom It May Concern

    I recently acquired a signed stipple print of “A New Love Song Only A Ha’ Penny A Piece” in the Cries of London Series. It is signed in pencil by H Scott Bridgwater.

    It is embossed on the margin of the front of the print (?LUG). It also has 5×5 label from The Museum Galleries identifying the artwork on the back of the frame.

    Can you provide any information about the value of this print? I am also interested in learning if H Scott Bridgwater painted any of the other works in the series.

    Thank you in advance,
    Bill Donnelly

  49. kevin lucas permalink
    December 9, 2013

    Fantastic reading.i have a cries of london plate 1 copyright by s hildesheimer and co ltd. London and manchester. Also on the back it says not to be strained then a number 2112. Is this original?if so does it have any value many thanks kevin lucas.
    Ps also engraved by l schiavonette.

  50. Robert Parks permalink
    December 15, 2013

    I have 5 Cries of London bought in Staines some 40 years ago. I do like them and have always had then on display. We have moved over the years 5 times now. People have admired them and now I can give the some history on F Wheatley RA. Thank you for this information.

    Robert Parks

  51. Kathy and Kris Pedersen permalink
    January 3, 2014

    My husband and I inherited two Cries of London prints. One Milk below Maids, plate #2 , engraved by Schiavonetti. The other is Turnips and Carrots, plate #13, engraved by Gaugain. We are interested to know what they are worth. Please help.

    I enjoyed the history and replies tremendously. Thank you.

  52. January 7, 2014

    I have a colored picture painted by F. Wheatley Strawberries Scarlet Strawberries printed on the bottom left. D’apres Vendramini is printed on the bottom left. It is framed in a chipped black frame with a dark green textured mat. The paper on the back of the picture frame says, museum mounted 100% rag. Fungus Treated. The last statement led me to think this picture might be worth something and I am curious about it. What do you think about it?

  53. Terry Russ permalink
    February 11, 2014

    How can I tell if my Knife, Scizsors and Razors to Grind (PLATE 6) is an original print

  54. richard jackson permalink
    March 11, 2014

    The Wheatley’s ‘turnips and carrots’ appears to include a third commodity – look at the leaves she is holding and those in the cart – do you think they could be rhubarb? Certainly the leaves bear a striking resemblance to rhubarb. This is of some interest since the usual story of rhubarb being first marketed (coming from Mayhew) is by Joseph Myatt (who undoubtedly was a major innovator in rhubarb growing) a decade or more after Wheatley produced these prints.

  55. Tracey Reid permalink
    March 19, 2014

    I see you are getting many requests in regards of value. Is there a link you could refer me to as I have the same question. I have the fourth engraving “Do you want my matches”? Cordon is the engraver It looks quite old paper is yellowed and fragile. The color however is still very good. On my print the woman’s dress color is opposite. Dress is red instead of blue etc.
    The history you researched is amazing! I’m looking forward to a response.
    Have a blessed day!

  56. brian harper permalink
    June 18, 2014

    Hi i have 13 cries of london by wheatley in nice condition nicely framed ready to hang down sizing so may have to go what are they worth?

  57. July 26, 2014

    hi i have the original book with water colors etc cries of london is it worth anything thanks

  58. August 24, 2014

    I have two picturesby Wheatley, new Mackeral and Round and Sound Five pence a pound . can you tell me what they are worth.

  59. Margaret carter permalink
    September 20, 2014

    I have a set of 6 Adams coffee cups and saucers showing the “Cries of London”. Can you tell me anything about them please?

  60. Susan permalink
    December 12, 2014

    Thank you so much for this information. I recently bought and refurbished an old stone home from the 1730’s.Among the many things that were left for me in the nooks and crannies were 2 of these beauties. “Fresh gathered peas, young Hastings” and Old chairs to mend.” I fell in love with their detail and expressions. I have since found a few more and hope, to collect them all!What fun!Thank you for the story behind them. Have a very Happy Holiday Season!

  61. Grant permalink
    March 8, 2015

    We live in Australia and have acquired a full set of framed prints of The Cries of London that came out of an old UK pub. They are VERY old but we are wondering what the full set is worth. They are quite remarkable.

  62. Linda Franks permalink
    July 3, 2015

    I just today came across 5 of these prints in little wooden frames very well made and sealed ( 5″ x 6″) in an op shop. The one Two bunches a penny etc has the stamp No 37 on the left hand back. What does this mean? A well spent $7.50 Australian I think. I love them!

  63. Helen Hardick permalink
    September 20, 2015

    Sorting through the attic we have found 8 “cries of London ” prints and would like to know their value , Hot spice and gingerbread plate no 2 , a new love song only ha, penny and piece plate no 11, fresh gathered peas young , plate 7 , knifes scissors and razors to grind plate no 6 , new mackerel , new mackerel plate 3 , do you want any matches plate 4 ,sweet china oranges plate 3 , tow bunches a penny primroses 2 bunches a penny primroses , look forward to hearing from you.

  64. donna permalink
    March 4, 2016

    I have 5 painting crys off London* can you tell me if they worth anything I have two bunches a penny an more .thanks for your help.

  65. Paula Marie Wheatley Kenny permalink
    March 4, 2016

    This is my Great great great great great Grandpa Francis Wheatley, I am so proud of him, I am an author and an artist, gosh if I could post a photo of myself you couldn’t deny us, the resemblance is uncanny, I am a Wheatley blood and bone! Bravo!

  66. Candy Armstrong permalink
    May 22, 2016

    I purchased a plate yesterday and on the bottom of the picture it says cries of London sweet oranges. There is no stamp on the back but the picture has a white background and the plate is emerald green with gold trim. The back of the plate is white. Is it worth anything ?

  67. carol barrell permalink
    May 24, 2016

    i have plate 6 cries of london what is its value

  68. Cale Wolf permalink
    August 7, 2016

    Hi everyone, if anyone is interested in buying I have 9 of those prints and I wish to sell them as one lot. I’m open to offers. Thank you!

  69. Marilyn Robotham permalink
    August 13, 2016

    Hi
    I have six small plates of cries of London painted by Wheatlyra and engraved by Schavonetti
    Dated 1657, Sweet China Oranges. Can you give me an idea of their value?

  70. Erica Sandow permalink
    August 24, 2016

    I purchased a set of four ceramic round tiles surrounded in some sort of beautiful timber. They are pictures of women selling flowers and fruit in the streets of London. I’ve had them for YEARS and was going to donate them to the local Op Shop but thought I would just check their value first. BLOODY GLAD I DID!! No way I’m giving them away now!!! Mind you I can’t seem to find ANY OTHER ONES THAT are round framed tiles?? They’re all plates or cups or prints. I’m not really sure how to find out exactly what they would be worth???? Is there anyone who could help me?

  71. Paula Marie Wheatley Kenny permalink
    October 9, 2016

    This is my great, great, great, great, great Grandpa, I am so proud of him! Ahhh XXX

  72. Paula Marie Wheatley Kenny permalink
    November 27, 2016

    This is my Great, great, great, great, great Grandpa, I am so sad that he died in a debtor’s jail. A brilliant artist, his descendants are England’s oldest fairground family, The Wheatleys, fairground travellers and hawkers.

  73. January 9, 2017

    Attention Paula Marie Wheatley Kenny.
    I went to Opatiga in what was then Yugoslavia in the 1970’s and met two elderly gentlemen called Sydney and

    I went to Opatija in the 1970s and staying in the same hotel were two elderly gentlemen called Leonard and Sydney who we often used to chat too. Leonard told us that his Great Grandfather was the painter Francis Wheatley. I have a photograph if you would like to see it.

  74. Paula Marie Kenny permalink
    March 25, 2017

    I would love to see it Margaret. X

  75. Didier permalink
    April 30, 2017

    Hi!
    I have a few .
    Old framing.
    How can I know their value and if they are originals or copies?
    Thanks for your time and help, it is very generous!

  76. joan van dreumel permalink
    September 7, 2017

    I have 11 prints of the “Cries of London” with the music on the back. Plate 8 “Round and Sound Five Pence a Pound Duke Cherries” has “Arrangement copyright 1955 by Associated Newspapers Ltd., London, E.C.4” at the bottom of the song.

    I have never framed the engravings as I didn’t want to cover the music. I would like to sell them but I have no idea how much to ask for them. It would be a shame to sell them separately but I will if necessary. Could you please give me some idea as to their value separately and as a group.

  77. Louann williamson permalink
    October 7, 2017

    I recently purchased two prints at a flea
    Market .. I never went to one before .. well I came across
    These two prints one print 2 milk under .. the other
    Print 7 fresh peas .. they have this beautiful
    Color to them and are in French as well as
    English . They also have an Italian name in the
    Bottom left corner . They are framed in this
    Very old wood and are in pristine condition
    Would you know there value ? They are lovely
    Thank you .

    Kindly
    Louann

  78. Terry Saunders permalink
    March 10, 2018

    On dealing with my mothers house contents which has proved a massive task as so much I have found a set of 13 Cries of London pictures. Are these likely to be valuable? They have always been in my mothers home all my life 67 years! Would an auction house be the best place to sell them?

  79. Tina Poling permalink
    June 16, 2018

    I have recently acquired Fresh Gathering of Peas Young Hastings. It says Cries Of London Plate No.7 . Left is says Painted by F. Wheatley R. W. and to the right its says engraved by G Vendrmen? Hard to read. The back is original and very old paper so I don’t want to take that off. How do I tell how old this is or if worth anything. It also has some very small print at bottom starting with Loudon Pub’d as the art director Jau ………………and at the end it says No. 132 Pall Mall. Does any of this identify the age?

  80. Ann-Marie permalink
    June 28, 2018

    Music sheet on the back ?.. hi I have plate 4..engraved by Cordon but it has the music sheet of the song to ‘Do you want any matches ?’on the back.

    I haven’t heard anyone else with this example ?..

    Any information would be great.

  81. December 6, 2018

    I purchased all 13 of the “Cries of London” from an antique shop in Beauchamp Place, London. They are 21″ x 23″ matted and framed.

  82. Jewel Jones Fulp permalink
    July 9, 2019

    I just purchase the no 6. Trying to find out if they are worth any monetary value. Please let me know.

    Thank you,
    Jewel

  83. August 20, 2019

    Great article..beautiful pictures.How does one date the prints?

  84. August 28, 2019

    Hello I have 2 plates of the… cries of London , 1.. will you buy my lavender.. 2nd sweet oranges.
    They both are green around the edges with raised pattern .
    On the back they have a hanging strap through the back of the plate ,also they both have a back stamp of a crown with letters underneath ( Alfa )
    can you tell me about them please ?.
    my grandma gave them to me and said they were my great grandma’s.

    ASAP reply would be great thank you

  85. Susan Dunn permalink
    September 15, 2019

    I have 12 cries of London prints in very good condition
    I see previous replies have asked if anyone knows the value I also note many have recently
    Purchased these at antinque shops etc
    It would be helpful if those people who have recently purchased these they give the amount they purchased them for
    This will go some way and estimating the value
    Sue adunn

  86. Diana Barnes permalink
    May 13, 2020

    I have several Cries of London place mats with a glass surround in excellent condition which belonged to my grandparents. Please could you advise the sort of value and if anyone might be interested in them? Thank you.

  87. Gail Whittle permalink
    July 9, 2020

    I have a Frances Wheatly print in I think oak frame.
    2 bunches a penny. Plate one
    Bought at an auction many years ago because i quite liked it. We are shifting and has just come to light.
    Is it worth selling? Can you please give me any idea of price if I sell.
    I am in New Zealand
    Thank you.
    Gail

  88. August 14, 2020

    I have a small dish with cries of London match cellar In the base of the dish and it has Adams printed on the bottom The make of the Potters with two coloured signatures Interested if anyone knows about them

  89. January 23, 2021

    I ha very the round& sound 5 pence a pound. I’ve had it for many yrs & still enjoy looking at it.

  90. Patrice Gavigan permalink
    January 23, 2021

    I purchased Fresh Gathered Peas. It was a wedding gift in 1902. The womans dress is in blue and has “F.Wheatly, R.A.” bottom left but no engraver noted bottom right. It is matted and framed under glass so I cannot see further notations on the engraving. Perhaps it’s not an engraving? But the are no dots to suggest it’s a reproduction. Thank you! Any advice?

  91. Lauren permalink
    September 24, 2021

    I have two as well, “turnips” and “Primrose”. Mine have the title written below with “Dry Point Etching” embossed in the lower left hand corner. I’m a bit confused why the title is written in pencil and why it is embossed “dry Point etching” . Trying to date my pieces. Thank you.

  92. Sandra Merritt permalink
    November 9, 2021

    Our family has 13 cries of london which a great uncle made in tapestries. Not worth a penny but we love them for the memories. ?

  93. Angela Barrah permalink
    December 29, 2021

    I also have been really interested in reading about the cries of London. On the back of each framed picture is the relevant song with music. I can’t find anything out about this could you give me any further information thank you for your information

  94. Angela Barrah permalink
    February 3, 2022

    We have 12 framed pictures of cries of London with relevant music with words on back of each picture. They are all framed and in excellent condition. Are these rare with the music does anyone know

  95. March 24, 2022

    Thank you very much for this lovely, informative post.

    My parents bought the entire set of 13 prints when I was a child (some 40 years ago) in England and we still have them in our possession. One strange aspect is that my mom is convinced that when she looks at the prints long enough she can see an arm move or a head turn! Although 89 she is perfectly sound of mind 🙂
    I wonder if anyone else has ever experience something like this?

  96. Christopher Jordan permalink
    July 20, 2022

    The archive of Southwark Art Collection has a complete set of the engravings.
    In the 1930s Spode offered 6 Wheatley ‘Cries of London’ figurines for sale, all Registered Designs and closely based on the Wheatley engravings. The are listed in Robert Copeland (1997) Spode & Copeland Marks. Studio Vista pp. 115-116. 6 10 32 777264 Cherries, 778046 Milk Below, 778047 Primrose, 778048 Turnips & Carrots, 778049 Fresh Peas, 778050 Strawberries.
    I note Donna Little 11 9 2012 says she has the original painting for Turnips & Carrots and C Garner 14 11 2013 says they have a flower seller. I wonder where the others are? It would be an interesting exercise, as one can do with Hogarth’s paintings and prints, to compare Wheatley originals with the prints issued.

  97. Noella Harten permalink
    February 26, 2023

    I have 2 ungrafted painting plate 9 and plate 10. I was wondering the price of these painting they are from the cries of london. Old chairs to mend and strawberry scralet lady

  98. Jane Waide permalink
    March 30, 2023

    I have two, framed Wheatley prints from The Cries of London series. They’re quite old. How can I tell if they’re original metal plate engravings or mezzotints? Thanks for any help.

  99. Leanne Perry permalink
    October 24, 2023

    I have three Wheatly Cries of London framed prints: ‘A New Love Song…’, ‘Strawberrys…’ and ‘Milk Below…’ They are very shabbily framed with stapled brown paper backing that is crumbling. The titles are in English on the left and then French on the right. I have searched and searched for exact matching prints on the Internet but can’t find any. Antique Identification Websites are no help. What exactly do I have and how old? I can send pictures.

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