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Bank Notes - Paper Money - French Alarmists - ah! poor John Bull
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Bank Notes - Paper Money - French Alarmists - ah! poor John Bull
NCO191224 Bank Notes - Paper Money - French Alarmists - ah! poor John Bull! published by Hannah Humphrey in 1797 (hand-coloured etching) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Courtesy of the Warden and Scholars of New College, Oxford; (add.info.: Britain taken off the gold standard; Prime Minister William Pitt (1759-1806) as a cashier; handing bills to John Bull; Charles James Fox (1749-1806) dressed as a pirate; Introduction of paper money in 1797); English, out of copyright
Media ID 22932396
© Bridgeman Images
1751 1816 Accepting Alarming Coins Counter Economic Crisis Economy Financial Hanoverian Ignorant Inflation Measure Member Of Parliament Minister Napoleonic Wars Opposition Outstretched Arm Pitt Political Satire Protesting Richard Sheridan Sack Spade Speech Bubble
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This hand-coloured etching titled "Bank Notes - Paper Money - French Alarmists - ah! poor John Bull!" by James Gillray is a captivating political satire that offers a glimpse into the economic crisis faced by Britain during the Napoleonic Wars. The image, published in 1797, showcases Prime Minister William Pitt as a cashier, symbolizing Britain's departure from the gold standard and introduction of paper money. In this satirical scene, Pitt can be seen handing bills to John Bull, representing the British public. Meanwhile, Charles James Fox appears dressed as a pirate, alluding to his opposition to Pitt's measures. Speech bubbles and outstretched arms convey the alarm felt by both sides regarding this financial decision. The composition cleverly captures the tension surrounding the suspension of cash payments and inflationary concerns. Ministers are depicted carrying bundles of banknotes while Richard Sheridan protests with a tricolour cockade on his hat. A counter with sacks of gold further emphasizes the drastic shift towards paper currency. Gillray's caricature highlights not only the financial implications but also political divisions within society during this period. Through intricate details and sharp wit, he masterfully conveys complex economic concepts in an accessible manner. This print serves as an invaluable historical document shedding light on one of Britain's most significant monetary transformations. Its artistic merit combined with its insightful commentary makes it a remarkable piece for any art enthusiast or history buff seeking to explore Georgian-era politics and economics through visual storytelling.
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