Artwork
Pretty Poll and Honest Jack

Pretty Poll and Honest Jack is a print by J. Evans. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
This print is titled "Pretty Poll and Honest Jack" by J. Evans.
It's from the late 18th century.
The print includes printed lyrics for a song, which is an interesting aspect of this work, as it shows how music was shared and sold during that time.
You can learn more about similar prints and songs at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Overview
This late 18th-century print, titled 'Pretty Poll and Honest Jack', was produced and sold in London by J. Evans. It features the printed lyrics to a song of the same name.
Subject & Meaning
The subject of the print is the dissemination of a specific song, 'Pretty Poll and Honest Jack', through the medium of printed lyrics. Its meaning lies in illustrating how music was commercially shared and consumed during the late 18th century.
Technique & Style
The print's technique is characterized by straightforward typography, prioritizing the legibility of song lyrics over visual embellishments, reflecting its practical purpose as a musical publication.
History & Provenance
Published by J. Evans in London, the print's exact date within the late 18th century is not specified. Its provenance is not detailed here, focusing instead on its origin and purpose.
Context
For broader insight into similar musical prints from the era, the Victoria and Albert Museum is suggested as a resource, implying the print's relevance within a larger historical context of music distribution.
Artist & collection
Artist
These late-18th-century prints capture everyday British life with crisp lines and sharp satire.












