Home > Arts > Artists > G > James Gillray
Cartoon, Introduction of Citizen Volpone... at Paris
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Cartoon, Introduction of Citizen Volpone... at Paris
Cartoon, Introduction of Citizen Volpone & his Suite at Paris, Vide The Moniteur, & Cobbetts Letters, by James Gillray. Showing Charles James Fox and his entourage bowing respectfully to Napoleon Bonaparte who sits on a throne. Date: 1802
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14230253
© The Sharp Illustration Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
1800s 1802 Bonaparte Bowing Citizen Cobbett Comment Criticism Curtsey Curtseying Entourage Etiquette Gillray Harsh Homage Introduction Letters Monitor Napoleon Respect Respectful Satire Satirical Suite Throne Whig Whigs Moniteur Obeisance Siting Vide Volpone
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> G
> James Gillray
> Europe
> France
> Paris
> Politics
EDITORS COMMENTS
James Gillray's satirical print, "Cartoon, Introduction of Citizen Volpone & his Suite at Paris," published in 1802, offers a scathing commentary on the political landscape of Europe during the early 19th century. The image depicts a grand scene in Paris, with Napoleon Bonaparte seated on a throne, surrounded by adoring French citizens. British statesman Charles James Fox and his entourage are shown bowing respectfully before the French leader, an act of obeisance that would have been considered beneath the dignity of a British politician at the time. The print is a harsh criticism of the Whig party's willingness to pay homage to Bonaparte, who was seen as a threat to British interests. The title "Citizen Volpone" is a reference to the character from Ben Jonson's play "Volpone," a deceitful and manipulative figure. Here, Gillray uses the name to mock Fox and his colleagues, suggesting that they are acting like fawning courtiers rather than principled politicians. The print also references two contemporary publications: "Vide The Moniteur" and "Cobbetts Letters." The Moniteur was a French newspaper that reported on Napoleon's actions and decrees, while William Cobbett's letters were a series of anti-Napoleonic pamphlets that were popular in Britain. By alluding to these works, Gillray underscores the idea that Fox and his colleagues are giving in to French propaganda and ignoring the warnings of those who opposed Napoleon. Overall, this cartoon is a powerful example of the satirical commentary that was common during the Napoleonic Wars. It reflects the complex political dynamics of the time and highlights the tensions between Britain and France. Despite its harsh criticism, however, it also reveals the enduring power of political theater and the ability of art to shape public opinion.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
