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Overthrow of the Republican Babel, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1809
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Overthrow of the Republican Babel, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1809
NCO190460 Overthrow of the Republican Babel, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1809 (hand-coloured etching) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Courtesy of the Warden and Scholars of New College, Oxford; (add.info.: Frederick Augustus, Duke of York (1763-1827) was acquitted of accusations of financial irregularities brought by his former mistress, Mary Clarke (c.1776-1852) before the House of Commons; accused of trafficking in promotions; accuser and radical supporters knocked from towering pile of evidence by the Speaker; ); English, out of copyright
Media ID 23356264
© Bridgeman Images
Acquittal Balance Barrel Bonnet Rouge Bundle Cockade Collapse Corruption Crashing Demon Documents Downpour Falling Gale Hanoverian Hobgoblin Jacobins Judged Judgment Ladder Libel Liberty Cap Muff Papers Pitchfork Political Satire Revolutionaries Scales Of Justice Scandal Scattered Slander Tricolour Winds Rushing Water
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The print titled "Overthrow of the Republican Babel" captures a pivotal moment in British political history, as depicted by the renowned satirical artist James Gillray. Published in 1809 by Hannah Humphrey, this hand-coloured etching showcases the dramatic acquittal of Frederick Augustus, Duke of York, from accusations brought against him by his former mistress Mary Clarke. In this chaotic scene, we witness a towering pile of evidence against the Duke and his alleged financial irregularities being knocked over by the Speaker of the House of Commons. The accuser and her radical supporters are sent flying amidst a stormy cloud, symbolizing their defeat. Ministers blow away like leaves in the wind while statesmen scramble to protect their reputation. Gillray's intricate details bring this political satire to life. From falling papers representing slanderous libel to collapsing scales of justice signifying corruption, every element adds depth to the narrative. The wrathful heavens above further emphasize that divine intervention is at play. Amidst all this chaos, one cannot help but notice various symbols scattered throughout: a bonnet rouge representing revolutionaries; a crown and rod symbolizing protection of royal reputation; and even a hobgoblin with pitchfork embodying Jacobins' influence. This engraving serves as both entertainment and commentary on Georgian politics. It reminds us that even those in power can face scrutiny and be subject to scandalous accusations. Gillray's artistic brilliance shines through as he masterfully captures not only historical events but also human nature itself – our desire for justice and our fascination with downfall.
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