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Political Amusements for Young Gentlemen, or The Old Brentford Shuttlecock
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Political Amusements for Young Gentlemen, or The Old Brentford Shuttlecock
NCO190435 Political Amusements for Young Gentlemen, or The Old Brentford Shuttlecock, between Old Sarum & the Temple of St. Steevens, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1801 (hand-coloured etching) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Courtesy of the Warden and Scholars of New College, Oxford; (add.info.: the head of John Horne Tooke (1736-1812) used as a shuttlecock; reference to an arrangement made by Lord Camelford for Tooke to represent the rotten borough of Old Sarum which was opposed by Lord Temple; ); English, out of copyright
Media ID 23356248
© Bridgeman Images
Battledore Corruption Election Hanoverian House Of Commons Member Of Parliament Political Satire Representation Plaything
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The Old Brentford Shuttlecock, captured in this hand-coloured etching by James Gillray and published by Hannah Humphrey in 1801, offers a whimsical yet biting commentary on the political landscape of its time. Depicting a playful scene amidst the backdrop of an election, it showcases the ingenious imagination of Georgian satire. At the center of attention is John Horne Tooke, a prominent statesman whose head has been humorously transformed into a shuttlecock. This clever allusion refers to Lord Camelford's arrangement for Tooke to represent the corrupt borough of Old Sarum, much to the opposition of Lord Temple. The shuttlecock symbolizes both power and mockery as it is volleyed between these two influential figures. This print serves as more than just entertainment; it encapsulates deeper themes such as corruption and representation within politics. By using caricature and satire, Gillray highlights the absurdity and flaws inherent in parliamentary systems during that era. The House of Commons becomes a stage for political amusement where personal agendas often overshadow public interest. Gillray's intricate engravings skillfully capture each character's unique traits while conveying their underlying motivations through exaggerated features. Through his artistry, he exposes hypocrisy with wit and precision. Today, this historical piece continues to intrigue viewers with its timeless relevance. It reminds us that even centuries ago, individuals were not immune to political gamesmanship or questionable motives within government institutions. As we reflect upon our own modern-day challenges in governance, we can
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