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The OP Spectacles, pub. 1809 (hand coloured etching)
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The OP Spectacles, pub. 1809 (hand coloured etching)
2490234 The OP Spectacles, pub. 1809 (hand coloured etching) by Cruikshank, George (1792-1878); Private Collection; (add.info.: John Philip Kemble (1757-1823); Henry Clifford (1768-1813);
" OP" refers to Old Prices. Clifford supported the " OPs and after the Old Price Riots of 1809 negotiated with Kemble to return to the old prices ); The Stapleton Collection; English, out of copyright
Media ID 22888914
© The Stapleton Collection / Bridgeman Images
Barrister Circle Circles Costs Covent Garden Prices Spectacles
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The OP Spectacles, pub. 1809" is a captivating hand-coloured etching by George Cruikshank that offers a glimpse into the world of theatre during the Old Price Riots of 1809. The image features two prominent figures, John Philip Kemble and Henry Clifford, who played significant roles in this historic event. The central focus of the print is a man wearing enormous spectacles, symbolizing the exaggerated costs imposed on theatregoers at Covent Garden Theatre. These inflated prices led to public outrage and protests known as the Old Price Riots. In this satirical cartoon, Cruikshank cleverly depicts these exorbitant prices through circles surrounding the man's face. John Philip Kemble, one of the leading actors and managers at Covent Garden Theatre during that time, is shown negotiating with Henry Clifford. Clifford was an advocate for lower ticket prices and played a crucial role in convincing Kemble to revert to old pricing policies. This engraving serves as both a historical document and a piece of political satire. It captures the tension between theatre management and audiences while shedding light on societal issues such as class struggle and economic disparity. "The OP Spectacles" provides viewers with an intriguing visual representation of this pivotal moment in theatrical history. Through its intricate details and subtle symbolism, it invites us to reflect on how art can be used as a powerful tool for social commentary.
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