Looking at the comet till you get a crick in the neck

Rowlandson, Thomas, 1756-1827 · September 20, 1811

A slipshod, lean old anatomy, in dressing gown and slippers, is straining his ancient crooked neck staring at a comet through a spyglass. A comely young female, seated in an armchair at the window, is pointing out the phenomenon to the gazer ; meanwhile a youthful gallant, on his knees beside the lady, is squeezing her hand, tenderly pressing her foot, and otherwise striving to enlist her interest by a demonstrative display of affection.