Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Politics > William Pitt the Younger
Income Tax, 1798
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Income Tax, 1798
Income Tax, 1798. John Bull scratches his head at William Pitts (1759-1806) introduction of Income Tax. Pitt is shown as an angel playing a harp. Hand-coloured cartoon in the style of Gillray
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14845836
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Document Georgian Gillray Government Harp Income Tax James Gillray John Bull Pitt Prime Minister Puzzled Stringed Instrument Taxation The Younger Tory William Pitt William Pitt The Younger Allegorical Figure Ann Ronan Pictures Bemused Metaphor
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> G
> James Gillray
> Arts
> Artists
> H
> Guy Head
> Arts
> Artists
> J
> William James
> Arts
> Artists
> S
> William Small
> Arts
> Literature
> Asia
> Georgia
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Politics
> William Pitt the Younger
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Politics
> William Pitt
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Music
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Politics
EDITORS COMMENTS
This hand-coloured cartoon print, titled "Income Tax, 1798" captures the perplexity and bemusement of John Bull, a personification of England, as he scratches his head in confusion over William Pitt's introduction of income tax. Depicted as an angel playing a harp, Pitt is portrayed with an air of divine authority while imposing this new financial burden on the people. The artist James Gillray masterfully employs allegory and satire to convey the political and social commentary surrounding taxation during the late 18th century. The image showcases Gillray's signature style, reminiscent of Georgian-era caricatures. Seated at a table with a book open before him, John Bull represents the common man who finds himself reading between the lines and scrutinizing every detail in this document. Metaphorically captured are concepts such as "reading the small print" and "scratching one's head" illustrating how individuals grapple with understanding complex government policies. The vibrant colours used in this print add depth to its satirical nature while highlighting both religious undertones through Pitt's angelic portrayal and political implications within British society. As a Tory politician and Prime Minister at that time, William Pitt faced significant opposition for implementing income tax. Overall, this artwork by James Gillray serves as a testament to his artistic prowess in capturing societal concerns through humourous yet thought-provoking imagery. It remains an important historical artifact reflecting Britain's financial landscape during the late 18th century.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
