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Shakespeare Sacrificed; or, The Offering to Avarice, 1789
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Shakespeare Sacrificed; or, The Offering to Avarice, 1789
7245436 Shakespeare Sacrificed; or, The Offering to Avarice, 1789 by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Yale Center for British Art, Paul Mellon Collection, USA; Yale Center for British Art; Paul Mellon Collection
Media ID 25195032
© Yale Center for British Art Paul Mellon Collection / Bridgeman Images
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The satirical print "Shakespeare Sacrificed; or, The Offering to Avarice" by James Gillray, created in 1789, is a scathing commentary on the exploitation of Shakespeare's works for financial gain. This thought-provoking piece is housed in the Yale Center for British Art's Paul Mellon Collection. Gillray's caricature depicts an allegorical scene where William Shakespeare himself is being sacrificed at the altar of greed and avarice. Surrounding him are various characters representing different aspects of society, all eagerly participating in this sacrilegious act. The artist uses his signature wit and biting satire to expose the commodification and commercialization of artistic genius. Through this artwork, Gillray highlights how even great literary figures like Shakespeare can be reduced to mere objects for profit. He challenges society's obsession with wealth and materialism while questioning the integrity of those who exploit art solely for monetary gain. This 18th-century cartoon serves as a powerful reminder that art should be appreciated for its intrinsic value rather than treated as a commodity. It urges viewers to reflect on their own relationship with creativity and reminds us that true appreciation lies not in exploiting artists but in honoring their contributions to our cultural heritage. As we gaze upon this provocative image from Fine Art Finder, let it serve as a catalyst for contemplation about the enduring relevance of Gillray's message and its implications within our modern world.
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