The waterman in the boat is evidently impressed by what he can see up the young lady's skirt as it is blown out in his direction by the wind. To understand the image one needs to know that 18th century female dress did not include panties. It is interesting to consider that this tile was produced for home decoration. The design is no. B4-1 in Anthony Ray's Liverpool Printed Tiles (1994). 

" /> Printed British Pottery & Porcelain | Tile
National Museums Liverpool 28.12.74.2
 

Shape Type: Miscellaneous

Pattern Type: Genre Scenes

Date: c. 1757-1761

Dimensions:

  • Height: 5.04 in (12.80 cm)
  • Length: 5.04 in (12.80 cm)
  • Width: 0.28 in (0.70 cm)

Maker: Unknown

Printer: John Sadler

Printer's Mark:

Printed
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Description:

Tin-glazed earthenware (so-called delftware) tile printed in black by John Sadler in Liverpool. The printed signature is that of Sadler alone, which means that the engraving should predate his taking Guy Green into partnership in 1761. The border was specially designed for this particular design of tile, which was the normal practice at this early period..  

The waterman in the boat is evidently...


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