ART / HOGARTH / ROAST BEEF

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ART / HOGARTH / ROAST BEEF

THE GATE OF CALAIS, OR, O THE ROAST BEEF OF OLD ENGLAND a satire on the well-fed English versus the poorly- fed French Date: 1749

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Media ID 20147947

© Bubblepunk

1749 Beef Calais Hogarth Monk Poorly Roast Satire Versus

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> Europe > United Kingdom > England > Wells

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EDITORS COMMENTS
The Gate of Calais, or The Roast Beef of Old England, is a masterpiece by the English artist William Hogarth, created in 1749. This satirical work of art is a commentary on the stark contrast between the well-fed English and the poorly-fed French during the time of the War of the Austrian Succession. In the foreground, a monk is shown carving a large piece of roast beef, while a group of English soldiers and civilians eagerly await their turn to be served. The savory aroma of the roast beef wafts through the air, enticing the onlookers. The English, with their ample bellies and satisfied expressions, represent the prosperity and abundance of their homeland. In the background, a desolate and barren landscape is depicted, with a group of starving French refugees huddled together, gazing longingly at the English feast. The French, with their gaunt faces and hollow eyes, are a stark contrast to the well-fed English. The title of the painting, "The Roast Beef of Old England," is a reference to a popular English folk song of the time, which celebrated the country's abundance and self-sufficiency. The painting was intended to be a satirical commentary on the English sense of superiority and the stark contrast between the two nations during a time of war. Hogarth's use of light and shadow, as well as his attention to detail, bring the scene to life and highlight the stark contrast between the two groups. The painting remains a powerful commentary on the human condition and the consequences of war, as well as a testament to Hogarth's skill as a painter and satirist.

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