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An Excrescence; A Fungus; Alias - A Toadstool upon a Dung-hill
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An Excrescence; A Fungus; Alias - A Toadstool upon a Dung-hill
NCO190109 An Excrescence; A Fungus; Alias - A Toadstool upon a Dung-hill, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1791 (etching with w/c) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); 25.5x22.5 cm; Courtesy of the Warden and Scholars of New College, Oxford; (add.info.: William Pitt (1759-1806) is attacked for holding too much power and for being too close to the king; head in the shape of a mushroom; tentacles form the shape of a crown; ); English, out of copyright
Media ID 23354974
© Bridgeman Images
Constitutional Monarchy Dung Excrement Growth Hanoverian Manure Poisonous Political Satire Powerful Prime Minister Red Nose Toxic Pernicious
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "An Excrescence; A Fungus; Alias - A Toadstool upon a Dung-hill" by James Gillray is a powerful political satire from 1791. The etching with watercolor depicts William Pitt, the Prime Minister of England at the time, as a poisonous and toxic figure. Pitt's head is transformed into the shape of a mushroom, symbolizing his pernicious influence and excessive power. The tentacles emerging from his head form the shape of a crown, highlighting his close relationship with the king and suggesting that he has become too entangled in royal affairs. This caricature portrays Pitt as an excrement-like growth on a dung-hill, emphasizing his unpopularity among critics who saw him as corrupt and detrimental to constitutional monarchy. Gillray's satirical portrait captures the essence of Pitt's controversial leadership during this period in Georgian history. His red nose further emphasizes his perceived flaws and weaknesses as a statesman. Through this artwork, Gillray criticizes not only Pitt but also the broader political landscape of Hanoverian England. This print offers viewers an intriguing glimpse into both historical politics and artistic expression. It serves as a reminder that even powerful leaders are not immune to criticism or satire. Courtesy of Fine Art Finder and Bridgeman Images, this image invites us to reflect on how political figures can be portrayed through art for centuries to come.
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