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Jack a Both Sides, published by William Humphrey in 1783 (hand-coloured etching)
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Jack a Both Sides, published by William Humphrey in 1783 (hand-coloured etching)
NCO190476 Jack a Both Sides, published by William Humphrey in 1783 (hand-coloured etching) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Courtesy of the Warden and Scholars of New College, Oxford; (add.info.: the Duke of Portland (1738-1809) presides over the Coalition government of Lord North (1732-92) and Charles James Fox (1749-1806); dangles a balance with his foot; George III (1738-1820) emerges from clouds; ); English, out of copyright
Media ID 22599592
© Bridgeman Images
Administration Alliance Balance Balancing Contempt Fart Farting Glowing Hanoverian Joint Ministry Political Satire Rotund Speech Bubble Stamping Stout Suspended Tantrum Tory Unbalanced Unequal Uneven Weighing Scales Weight Whig
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The print titled "Jack a Both Sides" captures a moment of political satire and caricature from the late 18th century. Published by William Humphrey in 1783, this hand-coloured etching by James Gillray depicts the Duke of Portland presiding over the Coalition government of Lord North and Charles James Fox. In the image, we see the rotund figure of the Duke of Portland holding a balance with his foot, symbolizing an unbalanced administration. George III emerges from clouds above, adding to the scene's satirical nature. The speech bubble coming out of Jack's mouth suggests that he is expressing contempt or perhaps even throwing a tantrum. This piece reflects on the joint alliance between Tories and Whigs during this time period, highlighting their uneven partnership through visual cues such as weighing scales and an unequal distribution of power. The duke holds Portland's huge wig while stamping his feet in apparent frustration. Gillray's engraving skillfully combines elements of humor and criticism to comment on contemporary politics. With its glowing colors and attention to detail, this artwork offers us a glimpse into Georgian-era political satire at its finest. Courtesy of New College, Oxford, this historical gem serves as both an artistic masterpiece and an important document for understanding British political history during that era.
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