James Sharp’s (1731-1783) trade card is illustrated with twenty detailed vignettes of essential farm machinery for the modern agriculturist. As each is lettered (A-T) it is likely that the card was accompanied by some explanatory text. Sharp was the author of at least two full trade catalogues: ‘A Description of Rolling Carts and Waggons’ (1772); and ‘Descriptions of some of the Utensils in Husbandry, Rolling Carriages, Cart Rollers, and divided rollers for land or gardens, mills, weighing engines, &c. &c.’ (1773).

Brother of Granville Sharp (1735-1813), abolitionist, James Sharp was a successful ironmonger, listed in London Directories from 1763-1784 at 15 Leadenhall St. He was succeeded at that address by Catherine Sharp, who was still operating from there until 1793. He is depicted in the famous painting by Zoffany of the Sharp family.