The Iconic Cries of London Image “Primroses, Yellow Primroses”

Among the most beloved of the iconic “Cries of London” series of prints by 18th century British artist Francis Wheatley is the image of the primrose seller titled “Primroses, Yellow Primroses.” This vivid portrayal of a flower girl hawking bunches of spring blooms on the streets of London has been reproduced countless times over the centuries on everything from fine porcelain discs to biscuit tins. For flower lovers and Anglophiles, owning an object embellished with Wheatley’s primrose seller image is a charming way to add a touch of English botanical history to one’s home.

About Francis Wheatley and His “Cries of London”

Francis Wheatley (1747-1801) was a London-born portrait and landscape painter. Though he was elected as a full member of the Royal Academy in 1790, he struggled financially later in life and died in poverty. His famous “Cries of London” series, depicting street vendors and everyday scenes of peddlers, tradesmen, and laborers, was completed between 1792 and 1795.

These images of London’s working class proved very popular when published as prints. The “Primroses, Yellow Primroses” image was the first plate engraved in the series by noted Italian engraver Luigi Schiavonetti. It captures a flower seller carrying a large flat basket overflowing with primrose blooms, their pale yellow blossoms tumbling over the edge.

Vintage Collectibles Featuring the Primrose Seller

Thanks to its delicate beauty and enduring appeal, Wheatley’s primrose seller has been reproduced on a variety of vintage and antique collectibles Here are some of the more unique items that can still be found

• Porcelain discs or plates – Often seen framed, these vividly transfer the image onto fine porcelain. Delicate handpainting brings the primroses to life.

• Biscuit tins – Vintage tin biscuit containers are highly sought after by collectors The primrose seller image graces many models, especially those manufactured by Huntley & Palmer

• Marketing ephemera – Past companies like Pears Soap featured the primrose seller in their advertising, Her image was also used on souvenir hand fans sold in London,

• Figurines – Porcelain figurines based on Wheatley’s cries series were sold by Spode and other makers. The primrose seller was one of the figurines produced.

• Engravings – Of course, authenticated original 18th century engravings of Plate 1 from the cries series command very high prices at auction when in good condition.

Where to Find Primrose Seller Collectibles Today

For those enamored with the primrose seller’s image, there are still opportunities to find delightful items for one’s collection:

• Check auction sites like eBay, which regularly feature cries of London porcelain and biscuit tins.

• Look on Etsy for artists creating painted wares and jewelry featuring the image.

• Search local antiques shops and flea markets for vintage biscuit tins, porcelain discs, and advertising pieces.

• Watch for cries of London figurines at antique malls and collectible shops.

• Connect with other cries of London collectors online to buy, sell, and trade.

Bringing a Bit of Cheerful English Charm Home

Wheatley’s pale primrose seller has been charming viewers for over 200 years with her basket of spring blooms. For flower lovers and anglophiles, finding a vintage object graced with this iconic image is a great way to incorporate some British botanical history into one’s home decor. The cries of London endure as a testament to the creative spirit that flourished even in the bleakest times.