Hannah Humphrey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hannah Humphrey
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| Born | c. 1745  |
| Died | 1818 |
| Occupation | Designer |
| Family | William Humphrey |
Hannah Humphrey was a very successful businesswoman in London during the 1700s and early 1800s. She was known for selling prints, which are like printed pictures or drawings. She became especially famous for publishing the works of a well-known artist named James Gillray.
Her Life as a Print Seller
Hannah Humphrey started her journey in the print business with her brother, William Humphrey, who was an engraver. An engraver creates images on metal plates that can then be used to print pictures.
Starting Her Own Business
Around 1778 or 1779, Hannah decided to open her own print shop. This was a big step! In the 18th century, several women ran successful print businesses in London. Hannah Humphrey was one of the most important among them. She became one of the top two print sellers in the entire city. The other top seller was Samuel Fores.
What She Sold
Hannah's shop was a popular place for fashionable people to visit. She sold many different kinds of prints. Her shop was especially known for its large collection of social and political caricatures.
- Caricatures are drawings that exaggerate someone's features or a situation for a funny or critical effect. They were a popular way to comment on society and politics back then.
She published works by famous artists like Thomas Rowlandson and James Sayers, in addition to James Gillray.
Her Shops and Home
Hannah Humphrey moved her shop several times over the years. She had locations on Old Bond Street, New Bond Street, and finally settled on St James's Street.
The famous artist James Gillray lived with Hannah for a long time. She even took care of him when he became ill in his later years. People believed that a character in one of Gillray's prints, called Two-Penny Whist, was a picture of Hannah. She was known as "Mrs. Humphrey" even though she never married.
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