Mr. Matthew Buchinger

Artist Matthew Buchinger (British, 1674 - 1740)

Date1724

MediumStipple engraving

DimensionsFrame: 21 × 17 1/4 in. (53.3 × 43.8 cm)
Sheet: 11 3/4 × 7 1/2 in. (29.8 × 19.1 cm)
Matt: 20 × 16 in. (50.8 × 40.6 cm)

ClassificationsPrints

Credit LineTibbals Circus Collection

Object numberht8000272

Matthew Buchinger was famous for his skills as an artist, engraver, musician, conjuror, and marksman, made more remarkable for his being born without arms or legs. In this engraved self portrait, the curls of Buchinger’s wig are made up of tiny written words of the psalms and the Lord’s Prayer. Matthew Buchinger was born in Germany on June 2, 1674 without hands or most of his legs, making him only 29 inches tall. Despite the challenges, he achieved amazing dexterity that allowed him to draw, write, and master multiple musical instruments, magic tricks, and games such as cards and dice. He came to England in 1714 with George I in hopes of receiving a pension for his musical abilities but was paid very little. This led him to reluctantly exhibit himself to public stares and sell his drawings to support his family, as this was the only other viable option at the time. Buchinger had at least fourteen children and married four times. He died in 1739 in Ireland, but by this time, his celebrity and finances had dwindled, as he stated himself that he was “no longer a novelty to them, having shewed through all the kingdom.” In this self-portrait, Buchinger uses a method called micrography, drawing using small words to form images, featuring “seven complete Psalms and the Lord’s Prayer” in the curls of his wig. In this print, he meets the gaze of those who look upon him.

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