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Bristol Riots: The Burning of Bridewell, with St Michaels Church, Bridewell Bridge
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Bristol Riots: The Burning of Bridewell, with St Michaels Church, Bridewell Bridge
2831192 Bristol Riots: The Burning of Bridewell, with St Michaels Church, Bridewell Bridge, c.1831 (oil on paper) by Wheatley, William W. (1811-1885); 13.7x19 cm; Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, UK; (add.info.: The Bristol Riots of 1831 took place after the House of Lords rejected the second Reform Bill, which aimed to get rid of some of the rotten boroughs. Local magistrate Sir Charles Wetherell, a strong opponent of the Bill, visited Bristol to open the new Assize Courts, on 29 October, and an angry mob chased him to the Mansion House in Queen Square. The rioters numbered about 500 or 600 young men and continued for three days, during which the palace of Robert Gray the Bishop of Bristol, the Mansion House, and private homes and property were looted and destroyed, along with demolition of much of the gaol. Four rioters killed; and four men hanged despite a petition of 10, 000.); eBristol Museums, Galleries & Archives; Purchased, 1921.; English, out of copyright
Media ID 23131708
© Bristol Museums, Galleries & Archives Purchased, 1921. / Bridgeman Images
Bridewell Bristol Disorder Fires Flame Gaol Jail Nighttime Nocturne Nocturnes Riot Riots Unrest Flames St Michaels
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intense and chaotic scene of the Bristol Riots in 1831. Titled "Bristol Riots: The Burning of Bridewell, with St Michaels Church, Bridewell Bridge" this artwork by William W. Wheatley showcases a pivotal moment in history. The image depicts the aftermath of the riotous events that unfolded after the rejection of the second Reform Bill by the House of Lords. In protest, an angry mob targeted local magistrate Sir Charles Wetherell during his visit to Bristol to open new Assize Courts. The rioters, consisting mainly of young men numbering around 500 or 600, unleashed their fury for three days. In this painting, we witness the destruction caused by these enraged individuals as they looted and set fire to various buildings including Robert Gray's palace, Mansion House, private homes, and even parts of the gaol. The chaos is palpable as smoke billows from burning structures while St Michaels Church stands tall amidst it all. Tragically, four rioters lost their lives during these tumultuous days while four others were unjustly hanged despite a petition signed by 10,000 people pleading for mercy. This powerful image serves as a reminder not only of past civil unrest but also highlights how societal tensions can escalate into violence when political decisions are met with strong opposition. It stands as a testament to both historical significance and artistic prowess captured on paper through oil paint strokes.
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