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The Spanish Bull Fight or the Corsican Matador in Danger, pub. 1805 (hand coloured engraving)
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The Spanish Bull Fight or the Corsican Matador in Danger, pub. 1805 (hand coloured engraving)
3035658 The Spanish Bull Fight or the Corsican Matador in Danger, pub. 1805 (hand coloured engraving) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Private Collection; (add.info.: Spain revolted against French occupation in May 1808; dead bulls representing countries defeated by France; Alexander I, Tsar of Russia (1777-1825); Joseph Bonaparte (1768-1844); Francis I, Emperor of Austria (1792-1835); Frederick William III, King of Prussia (1770-1840); King George III (1738-1820); Gustav IV, King of Sweden (1778-1837); Mahmud II (1784-1839); John VI, King of Portugal (1769-1826); Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821); Pope Pius VII (Luigi Barnaba Chiaramonti) (1740-1823); ); The Stapleton Collection
Media ID 25900594
© The Stapleton Collection / Bridgeman Images
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The Spanish Bull Fight or the Corsican Matador in Danger
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating hand-coloured engraving by James Gillray, dating back to 1805. This satirical artwork offers a scathing commentary on the decline of imperial power and the political landscape of its time. Depicting a bullfight arena as a metaphorical stage for European leaders, Gillray portrays various figures representing countries defeated by France during its occupation. The fallen bulls symbolize these conquered nations, while prominent personalities such as Napoleon Bonaparte and Pope Pius VII are depicted as puppet rulers manipulated by their own ambitions. The scene is filled with chaos and turmoil, with injured matadors lying wounded amidst broken swords and trampled crowns. The once mighty leaders now find themselves gored, maimed, or tossed aside like discarded puppets. Their expressions range from enraged to damaged, reflecting the reversal of fortune they have experienced. Gillray's masterful use of satire highlights not only the physical harm inflicted upon these leaders but also their weakened positions and declining empires. Through his sharp wit and artistic skill, he exposes the fragility of power and mocks those who were once considered invincible. This print serves as both entertainment and social commentary for its contemporary audience. It reminds us that even the most powerful individuals can be brought down by their own hubris or external forces beyond their control. "The Spanish Bull Fight or the Corsican Matador in Danger" stands as a testament to Gillray's ability to capture complex political themes through vivid imagery and biting satire.
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