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The Middlesex election, 1775. Artist: Samuel Hieronymus Grimm
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The Middlesex election, 1775. Artist: Samuel Hieronymus Grimm
The Middlesex election, 1775. A citizen records his vote at a polling station. A fat man brandishes a knife. On the left a frightened citizen is being hustled to the booth by a man brandishing shears. Alluding to alleging by supporters of John Wilkes
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Media ID 15173672
© London Metropolitan Archives (City of London) / Heritage-Images
Barrel Barrels Corruption Election Electioneering Fear Grimm John Wilkes Knife Knives Polling Station S H Grimm Samuel Hieronymus Samuel Hieronymus Grimm Sh Grimm Shears Voting Wilkes Polling Booth
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The Middlesex Election, 1775 - A Glimpse into the Political Chaos of the 18th Century
EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this print by Samuel Hieronymus Grimm, we are transported back to a pivotal moment in history - the Middlesex election of 1775. The scene unfolds at a bustling polling station where citizens exercise their right to vote amidst an atmosphere charged with tension and intrigue. At first glance, we witness a citizen diligently recording his vote while surrounded by fellow voters anxiously awaiting their turn. However, our attention is quickly drawn to two peculiar figures that add an element of satire and symbolism to the composition. On one side stands a portly man brandishing a knife, symbolizing corruption and intimidation tactics employed during elections. His presence serves as a stark reminder of the underhanded methods used by some candidates and their supporters in pursuit of power. Meanwhile, on the left-hand side, another citizen is being hurried towards the booth by a man wielding shears. This comical yet unsettling image alludes to allegations made against John Wilkes' supporters regarding voter coercion and manipulation. Grimm's masterful use of watercolor brings vibrancy to every detail - from the colorful barrels lining the room to each individual's expression reflecting fear or determination. Through this artwork housed at Guildhall Library and Art Gallery, we gain insight into not only historical electoral practices but also broader themes such as political corruption and public sentiment surrounding elections in eighteenth-century England. This intriguing piece invites us to
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