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For improving the Breed, sketched at Wirtemberg, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1796
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For improving the Breed, sketched at Wirtemberg, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1796
NCO191299 For improving the Breed, sketched at Wirtemberg, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1796 (hand-coloured etching) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Courtesy of the Warden and Scholars of New College, Oxford; English, out of copyright
Media ID 23354856
© Bridgeman Images
Ancestry Breeding Cravat Epaulettes Fashionable Dress Frock Coat Gentry Lineage Official Queue Social Satire Stock Vanity Waistcoat Pot Bellied
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This hand-coloured etching, titled "For improving the Breed, sketched at Wirtemberg and published by Hannah Humphrey in 1796" is a captivating piece of social satire created by James Gillray. The print offers a humorous commentary on the obsession with lineage and breeding prevalent among German aristocrats during that era. The central figure in this caricature is a pot-bellied German aristocrat, depicted in full length and profile view. Dressed in fashionable attire consisting of a frock coat, waistcoat, cravat, and wig adorned with epaulettes, he exudes an air of vanity and self-importance. His exaggerated features are further accentuated by his queue hairstyle and stock collar. Gillray's satirical portrayal highlights the absurdity of placing such importance on one's ancestry as a measure of worthiness or superiority within society. The title itself suggests that this aristocrat believes he can improve his own breed through careful selection of partners for procreation. Through clever use of visual elements like ceremonial symbols and official regalia associated with high-ranking individuals, Gillray mocks the pretentiousness often found within the upper echelons of society. This engraving serves as both entertainment and critique, inviting viewers to reflect upon their own notions of class hierarchy and societal expectations. Thanks to Bridgeman Images' collection, we have access to this remarkable artwork from centuries ago which continues to resonate today.
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