The Beauties of Bagnigge Wells

Bagnigge Wells was a popular meeting place in St Pancras, especially after the discovery in 1760 of two spas. The attractions of the spa were soon outweighed by its reputation as a meeting point for couples. This mezzotint shows the gardens (with the fountain in the background) which became a favourite place for romantic encounters. A party dine under the shadow of a colonnade on the lake as couples walk around the gardens. The river Fleet played an important part in the enjoyment of the visitors as can be seen by the presence of the lake and the fountains.

The title of the print as well as the provocative costume and pose of the central female figure suggests that prostitutes frequented Bagnigge Wells, looking out for apprentices or boys whose morals were’ depraved’. This was a popular print which was reproduced several times.