'Patents' — Mr John Fletcher Moulton, Q.C., M.P.

Ward's plate caricatures John Fletcher Moulton — barrister, mathematician, and future Law Lord — under the caption *"Patents,"* identifying his speciality as much as his name. The composition is characteristic Spy: a three-quarter rear profile, one hand thrust into a trouser pocket, elbow cocked, the figure leaning slightly forward with an air of guarded authority. Pince-nez dangle from the nose; a walrus moustache anchors the face. The dark frock coat and grey trousers are rendered with flattering tailoring, the caricature residing chiefly in the large, domed, balding head and the exaggerated stoop of concentration — the intellectual's crouch. The likeness gently mocks Moulton's reputation for dense, technical brilliance without affection.