Home > Humour > H.M. Bateman
Someone Drops a Sixpence Near Somerset House - HM Bateman
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Someone Drops a Sixpence Near Somerset House - HM Bateman
H.M. Bateman had a particular loathing for the taxman as exemplified in this cartoon showing the inhabitants of Somerset House (then the home of the Inland Revenue) alerted en masse to the sound of a sixpence dropping on the pavement. Date: 1938
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14413965
© Estate of H M Bateman/ILN/Mary Evans Picture Library
Amusing Bateman Cash Coin Coins Dec16 Grasping Greed Greedy Inland Inspector Money Revenue Satire Sixpence Somerset Taxman
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Somerset
> Related Images
> Humour
> H.M. Bateman
> Popular Themes
> Money
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this satirical print by H.M. Bateman, titled "Someone Drops a Sixpence Near Somerset House," the artist captures the greed and alertness of the Inland Revenue inspectors as they rush towards a fallen sixpence on the pavement outside Somerset House in London. The building, which was the former headquarters of the Inland Revenue, is depicted as a fortress, with barbed wire and guards at the entrance, symbolizing the perceived oppressive nature of the tax authority. Bateman, known for his humorous and often biting commentary on society, uses this cartoon to highlight the insatiable appetite of the taxmen for money. The image shows a crowd of inspectors, each with a determined look on their faces, scrambling towards the coin, illustrating their relentless pursuit of every last penny owed to the government. The cartoon's title, "Someone Drops a Sixpence Near Somerset House," adds to the amusing tone, emphasizing the absurdity of the situation. The sixpence, a relatively small amount of money in today's terms, represents the symbolic value of every coin or note that passes through the hands of the taxman. Bateman's satirical portrayal of the Inland Revenue and their perceived greed serves as a reminder of the public's frustration and unease towards the tax system during this period. This print, created in 1938, continues to resonate with audiences today, providing a humorous yet insightful commentary on the enduring nature of the taxman's role in society.
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
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.
