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The Handwriting on the Wall, satire depicting King William IV looking at a wall with the slogan "Reform Bill!"painted on it, 1831 (engraving)
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The Handwriting on the Wall, satire depicting King William IV looking at a wall with the slogan "Reform Bill!"painted on it, 1831 (engraving)
7148295 The Handwriting on the Wall, satire depicting King William IV looking at a wall with the slogan " Reform Bill!" painted on it, 1831 (engraving) by Doyle, John (H.B.) (1797-1868) (after); Private Collection; (add.info.: The Handwriting on the Wall, satire depicting King William IV looking at a wall with the slogan " Reform Bill!" painted on it, 1831. Illustration from A History of Parliamentary Elections and Electioneering from the Stuarts to Queen Victoria, by Joseph Grego (Chatto & Windus, London, 1892).); © Look and Learn
Media ID 24715110
© Look and Learn / Bridgeman Images
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The Handwriting on the Wall
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a satirical engraving that captures a pivotal moment in British history. Depicting King William IV standing before a wall adorned with the slogan "Reform Bill!", this artwork by John Doyle (H. B. ) offers a humorous commentary on the political climate of 1831. In this image, we see the king reading and contemplating the message scrawled across the wall. The Reform Bill referred to was an important piece of legislation aimed at expanding voting rights and reducing corruption in elections. By highlighting this issue through satire, Doyle sheds light on the tensions between monarchy and democracy during this time. The cartoonish style adds to its comedic effect, as it exaggerates certain features of both King William IV and his surroundings. This lighthearted approach allows viewers to engage with complex political themes while also providing entertainment. "The Handwriting on the Wall" serves as more than just a visual representation; it acts as historical documentation of an era marked by social change and political upheaval. It reminds us that art has always played a role in shaping public opinion and challenging authority. This print from Fine Art Finder's collection invites us to reflect upon our own society's struggles for reform and how humor can be used as a powerful tool for social commentary.
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