Fine Art Print : Cartoon, The Great Balloon
Fine Art Prints from Mary Evans Picture Library
Cartoon, The Great Balloon
Cartoon, The Great Balloon, by James Gillray. A satirical comment on the subject of Lord Grenvilles installation as Chancellor of Oxford University. The balloon is depicted as a fat man with hot air (labelled Promises) escaping from behind. The installation (3 July 1810) followed a divisive election in which Lord Eldon opposed Lord Grenville on political and religious grounds. Opponents like Gillray saw Grenvilles installation as a triumph for Catholic Emancipation. Faces in the crowd include political figures: Buckingham, Stafford, M.A. Taylor, Erskine, Tierney, Holland, Grey, Sidmouth, Cholmondeley, Whitbread, Watkin Williams-Wynn, Fingall and Sheridan. Date: 1810
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Media ID 14232509
© The Sharp Illustration Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
1810 Ascending Balloon Ballooning Buckingham Chancellor Cholmondeley Comment Criticism Crucifix Election Emancipation Escaping Gillray Gown Grenville Harsh Installation Lampooning Oxford Papal Pope Promises Satire Satirical Sheridan Sidmouth Stafford Triple University Watkin Whitbread Williams Wynn
A2 (42x59cm) Fine Art Print
Introducing the latest addition to our Media Storehouse Fine Art Prints collection: "The Great Balloon" by James Gillray, available now through Mary Evans Prints Online. This iconic 18th-century satirical cartoon depicts Lord Grenville's installation as Chancellor of Oxford University, offering a captivating glimpse into historical events. Each print is meticulously reproduced with the highest quality standards, ensuring vibrant colors and intricate details that bring the art to life. Add a touch of history and wit to your space with this timeless piece from our Media Storehouse Fine Art Prints range.
Our Fine Art Prints are printed on 100% acid free, PH neutral paper with archival properties. This printing method is used by museums and art collections to exhibit photographs and art reproductions. Hahnemühle certified studio for digital fine art printing. Printed on 308gsm Photo Rag Paper.
Our fine art prints are high-quality prints made using a paper called Photo Rag. This 100% cotton rag fibre paper is known for its exceptional image sharpness, rich colors, and high level of detail, making it a popular choice for professional photographers and artists. Photo rag paper is our clear recommendation for a fine art paper print. If you can afford to spend more on a higher quality paper, then Photo Rag is our clear recommendation for a fine art paper print.
Estimated Image Size (if not cropped) is 42cm x 55.9cm (16.5" x 22")
Estimated Product Size is 42cm x 59.4cm (16.5" x 23.4")
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with portrait (vertical) orientation to match the source image.
EDITORS COMMENTS
This satirical print by James Gillray, titled 'Cartoon, The Great Balloon,' offers a harsh commentary on the installation of Lord Grenville as Chancellor of Oxford University in 1810. The image depicts a large balloon, personified as a fat man, with the label "Promises" escaping from behind. The installation followed a divisive election in which Lord Eldon opposed Lord Grenville on political and religious grounds. The balloon's ascent is transporting the Pope and the Triple Crown, symbolizing the papal influence and the monarchy's power in the university. Grenville's installation was seen by opponents like Gillray as a triumph for Catholic Emancipation, a controversial issue at the time. The crowd in the background includes several political figures, such as Buckingham, Stafford, M.A. Taylor, Erskine, Tierney, Holland, Grey, Sidmouth, Cholmondeley, Whitbread, Watkin Williams-Wynn, Fingall, and Sheridan. Their expressions range from amusement to disapproval. The balloon's crucifix and the back view of the man in the gown add a layer of humor to the commentary. The image's title, 'The Great Balloon,' and the caption, 'Early in the Morning, Ascending,' further emphasize the idea of a grand, yet empty promise. This satirical print reflects the political tensions and debates surrounding Lord Grenville's installation as Chancellor of Oxford University in 1810, providing a valuable historical insight into the era's political climate.
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