A rare Derby figure group of a Macaroni and a farmer c.1775-80

A rare Derby figure group of a Macaroni and a farmer c.1775-80, the country gent throwing his hands up in horror at his dandified son in powdered wig and bright apparel, incised No. 85 to the base, some chipping, 18cm.

The group is copied from an anonymous print titled 'What is this, my son Tom?' which was published by R Sayer and J Bannatt in 1774. The derogatory term 'macaroni' came into use in the mid 18th century in reference to overly-fashionable young gentleman who had developed a taste for the Italian pasta during their Grand Tour travels.