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Illustration from The English Dance of Death by William Combe, 1815 (aquatint)
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Illustration from The English Dance of Death by William Combe, 1815 (aquatint)
XJF294026 Illustration from The English Dance of Death by William Combe, 1815 (aquatint) (b/w photo) by Rowlandson, Thomas (1756-1827); Private Collection; (add.info.: Inscription under the image reads, Some find their death by Swords and Bullets; And some by fluids down the Gullet ; William Combe (1742-1823); satire about the evils of drinking alcohol; skeleton adds poison to the drinks; ); English, out of copyright
Media ID 12816325
© www.bridgemanart.com
Alcoholic Alcoholism Bad Behaviour Barrels Binge Cavorting Cellar Drunk Drunken Humourous Licentious Licentiousness Passed Out Poisoned Sick Tavern Vice Vitriol Binge Drinking
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to the early 19th century, showcasing an illustration from "The English Dance of Death" by William Combe. Created in 1815, this aquatint piece by Thomas Rowlandson offers a satirical commentary on the perils of excessive alcohol consumption. Intriguingly morbid yet undeniably humorous, the image depicts a scene where death lurks amidst a chaotic tavern setting. Men and women are seen indulging in their vices, engaging in drunken fights and cavorting with licentiousness. The skeleton figure adds poison to drinks, symbolizing the destructive nature of alcoholism. Combe's poem inscribed beneath the illustration speaks volumes about society's struggle with alcohol-related issues during that era. It highlights how some meet their demise through swords and bullets while others succumb to fluids down their gullets – a clever play on words emphasizing both violence and intoxication as causes of death. This artwork serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences that accompany excessive drinking: poor health, bad behavior, and even untimely demise. Through its biting satire, it aims to provoke reflection on societal norms surrounding binge drinking and vice. As we gaze upon this thought-provoking print from our private collection, we are transported into an era where art was used not only for aesthetic pleasure but also as a tool for social critique.
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