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Cartoon lampooning the disastrous experiment with paper money by the Scotsman John
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Cartoon lampooning the disastrous experiment with paper money by the Scotsman John
XIR75715 Cartoon lampooning the disastrous experiment with paper money by the Scotsman John Law during his time as controller-general of French finances between January and May 1720 (engraving) by Flemish School, (18th century); Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris, France; Flemish, out of copyright
Media ID 12936229
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Bank Note Bankrupt Bankruptcy Defecating Economics Fraud Gambling Greed Share Speculation Suicide Tower Of Babel Shareholder
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This print captures a cartoon that mercilessly lampoons the disastrous experiment with paper money conducted by the Scottish economist John Law. Serving as controller-general of French finances from January to May 1720, Law's ill-fated papier monnaie system led to widespread speculation and ultimately bankruptcy. The engraving, created by an anonymous artist from the Flemish School in the 18th century, depicts a scene filled with chaos and despair. Bank notes flutter through the air like confetti while shareholders clutch their heads in anguish. The once-promising tower of babel built on financial dreams now crumbles under the weight of greed and gambling. In this satirical depiction, even suicide becomes a grim consequence of Law's fraudulent economic scheme. The infamous Rue Quincampoix serves as a backdrop for scenes depicting defecation—a stark metaphor for the excremental outcome brought about by this failed experiment. As we gaze upon this historical artifact, it serves as a reminder of how easily human beings can be swayed by promises of wealth and prosperity. It also highlights the dangers inherent in unchecked speculation and blind faith in monetary systems. Preserved within Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris, France, this image invites us to reflect on past economic failures while urging caution against repeating them. Let it serve as a warning against placing our trust solely in paper money without considering its underlying value or potential consequences.
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