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The Contrast 1793. British Liberty. French liberty. Which is best?, 1793. Creator: Rowlandson, Thomas (1756-1827)
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The Contrast 1793. British Liberty. French liberty. Which is best?, 1793. Creator: Rowlandson, Thomas (1756-1827)
The Contrast 1793. British Liberty. French liberty. Which is best?, 1793. Found in the collection of the Bibliotheque Nationale de France
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Media ID 36227281
© Fine Art Images/Heritage Images
1793 Bibliotheque Nationale De France Copper Engraving Watercolour French Revolution Great Britain Rowlandson Copper Engraving
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The Contrast - British Liberty vs. French Liberty, 1793
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is a thought-provoking and satirical print by the renowned English artist Thomas Rowlandson. Created during the height of the French Revolution, this copper engraving with watercolor highlights the stark contrast between the perceived notions of freedom in Great Britain and France at that time. The print depicts two figures, each representing the ideals of their respective nations. On the left, a well-dressed British gentleman, symbolizing order and stability, stands confidently with a top hat in hand, while on the right, a disheveled Frenchman, embodying chaos and anarchy, clutches a bottle of wine and brandishes a pistol. In the background, the British scene is serene, with people going about their daily business, while the French scene is chaotic, with rioters burning buildings and looting shops. The title of the print, "British Liberty. French liberty. Which is best?", poses a provocative question that would have resonated with the public during the time of the French Revolution. Rowlandson's use of satire and irony invites the viewer to reflect on the meaning of liberty and the potential consequences of revolutionary fervor. This print is a significant historical artifact, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of the time. It is a testament to the power of art to provoke thought and spark debate, and a reminder of the complexities of the concepts of freedom and liberty. The print is now part of the esteemed collection of the Bibliotheque Nationale de France, a treasure trove of fine art images that chronicle the rich history of France and the world.
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