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French Happiness: English Misery, pub. 1793 (hand coloured engraving)
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French Happiness: English Misery, pub. 1793 (hand coloured engraving)
2655361 French Happiness: English Misery, pub. 1793 (hand coloured engraving) by Cruikshank, Isaac (1756-1811); Private Collection; The Stapleton Collection; Scottish, out of copyright
Media ID 22761328
© The Stapleton Collection / Bridgeman Images
Arguing Birdcage Contented Excess Feast Feasting Flagon Frog Full Gluttony Greed Greedy Hanging Macabre Morbid Noose Ragged Sans Culottes Squabbling Starving Tavern
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The hand-coloured engraving titled "French Happiness: English Misery, pub. 1793" by Isaac Cruikshank captures a satirical scene filled with political symbolism and dark humor. In this macabre caricature, the artist portrays the stark contrast between France and Great Britain during that period. The image depicts a chaotic tavern setting where Frenchmen are shown contentedly feasting at a table laden with food, while their British counterparts appear ragged and starving. The satire is evident as men from both nations engage in a fierce fight over scraps of food, symbolizing the greed and gluttony prevalent in society. Amidst the chaos, an argument ensues between two men who represent France and England respectively. They confront each other fiercely, reflecting the ongoing conflict between these two nations at that time. Adding to the morbid atmosphere of the print is a dead cat hanging above them from a noose, emphasizing themes of excess and suffering. A birdcage containing a frog further highlights the absurdity of their situation. This engraving serves as biting social commentary on political tensions between France and England during this era. It exposes not only the vast disparities in wealth but also criticizes both countries for their excessive behavior. Overall, Cruikshank's "French Happiness: English Misery" offers viewers an intriguing glimpse into historical events through its clever use of satire and symbolic imagery.
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