Mounted Print : Cartoon, The Great Balloon
Mounted 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
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
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
10"x8" Mount with 8"x6" Print
Introducing the latest addition to our Media Storehouse Mounted Photos collection: a captivating print of "The Great Balloon" by James Gillray, available now. This satirical cartoon, sourced from Mary Evans Prints Online, originally appeared in 1783 as a commentary on the installation of Lord Grenville as Chancellor of Oxford University. With its rich historical significance and intriguing storytelling, this mounted photo is a must-have for any art or history enthusiast. Bring a touch of timeless charm to your home or office with this beautifully presented, ready-to-hang piece.
Printed on 8"x6" paper and suitable for use in a 10"x8" frame (frame not included). Prints are mounted with card both front and back. Featuring a custom cut aperture to match chosen image. Professional 234gsm Fujifilm Crystal Archive DP II paper.
Photo prints supplied in custom cut card mount ready for framing
Estimated Image Size (if not cropped) is 15.2cm x 20.2cm (6" x 8")
Estimated Product Size is 20.3cm x 25.4cm (8" x 10")
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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