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Praetor Urbanus - Inauguration of the Coptic Mayor of Cairo
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Praetor Urbanus - Inauguration of the Coptic Mayor of Cairo
1275085 Praetor Urbanus - Inauguration of the Coptic Mayor of Cairo, preceded by the Procureur de la Commune, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1799 (hand-coloured etching) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Private Collection; (add.info.: An obese Copt, holding a mace or staff, rides an ass which, though led processionally by a Copt, proceeds on account of the bayonet with which a grinning French soldier stabs its hind quarters.); The Stapleton Collection; English, out of copyright
Media ID 23387944
© The Stapleton Collection / Bridgeman Images
1756 1799 1815 Account Aged Bayonet Cairo Commune Copt Coptic Grinning Hind Inauguration James Mace Mayor Mocking North African Nostalgia Nostalgic Obese Old Fashioned Quarters Staff Arkheia Gilray
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This hand-coloured etching, titled "Praetor Urbanus - Inauguration of the Coptic Mayor of Cairo" captures a satirical moment in history with a touch of humor and irony. Created by James Gillray in 1799, this artwork depicts an obese Copt, symbolizing the newly appointed mayor of Cairo, riding on an ass. However, the procession is disrupted by a grinning French soldier who stabs the hindquarters of the donkey with a bayonet. The artist's intention becomes clear as he mocks both political power and colonial rule through this caricature. The obese figure represents excess and incompetence within leadership while highlighting cultural differences between North Africa and Europe. The soldier's action suggests that foreign influence undermines local authority. Gillray's attention to detail brings historical context to life; from ceremonial mace held by the mayor to the aged architecture in Cairo's backdrop, every element adds depth to this scene. This print not only serves as a reminder of past events but also evokes nostalgia for an era long gone. Published by Hannah Humphrey and now part of a private collection, this artwork showcases Gillray's mastery in satire and his ability to capture complex themes through visual storytelling. It stands as both a testament to artistic skill and as a reflection on power dynamics during that time period. Overall, "Praetor Urbanus - Inauguration of the Coptic Mayor of Cairo" offers viewers an opportunity to engage with history while appreciating Gillray
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