Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Art > Dance
English gentleman carried in a sedan chair for an election
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
English gentleman carried in a sedan chair for an election
English gentleman carried in a sedan chair through the rotten borough of Grapple Town during an election for parliament. Handcoloured copperplate engraving after an illustration by Thomas Rowlandson from William Combes The Dance of Life, Rudolph Ackermann, London, 1817
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23389670
© Florilegius
Ackermann Aristocracy Bride Carried Ceremony Combe Election Gentleman Groom Hearth Mantle Marrying Mirror Parlour Regency Rowlandson Rudolph Sedan Staff Stately Vicar
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> A
> Rudolph Ackermann
> Arts
> Artists
> R
> Thomas Rowlandson
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Art
> Dance
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Boroughs
> Related Images
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
> Popular Themes
> Dance
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this intriguing handcoloured copperplate engraving from the Regency era, an English gentleman is carried through the notorious rotten borough of Grapple Town during an election for parliament in a grand sedan chair. The image, created by renowned English artist Thomas Rowlandson and published by Rudolph Ackermann in 1817 as part of William Combe's "The Dance of Life," offers a humorous and satirical commentary on the corrupt political practices of the time. The gentleman, dressed in the height of fashion, is surrounded by a crowd of boisterous onlookers, some of whom appear to be bribing voters with alcohol. A man in the foreground holds a sign that reads "Vote for me and I'll marry your daughter," highlighting the connection between politics and personal gain in this era. The sedan chair, a symbol of wealth and status, is adorned with elaborate decorations and is being carried by four porters. The gentleman's wife, dressed in a beautiful bridal gown, sits in the chair beside him, while a groom, also in a top hat and tailcoat, follows behind, carrying the train of her dress. The interior of the gentleman's stately home is depicted in the background, with a fire burning in the hearth, a mirror reflecting the scene, and a mantle adorned with family portraits. This contrast between the corrupt political process and the comforts of home underscores the disconnect between the aristocracy and the common people. The handcoloured engraving, with its intricate details and rich colours, offers a glimpse into the opulence and corruption of the Regency era, making it a fascinating and valuable historical document.
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.
