Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Museums > British Library
The scrutiny, or examination of the filth, 1784
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
The scrutiny, or examination of the filth, 1784
The scrutiny, or examination of the filth, 1784. Five men, holding their noses and examining chamber pots, with devils in the background on either side. One man is vomiting. three men and both the devils are making remarks. The pots are inscribed Poll book, 1784. This is a satire on the demand for scrutiny of votes by Charles Wray after the 1784 general election. Wray finished third behind Viscount Hood and Charles John Fox in the race for the two seats in the Westminster constituency, but contested the poll
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 15177526
© London Metropolitan Archives (City of London) / Heritage-Images
1st Viscount Hood Admiral Samuel Hood Cecil Cecil Wray Chamber Pot Charles Fox Charles James Charles James Fox Devil Disgust Dispute Examining Excrement Fraud General Election Hood Political Event Samuel Samuel Hood Scandal Sir Cecil Wray Smelly Viscount Samuel Viscount Samuel Hood Wray Disgusting Filth Revulsion Scrutinising Scrutiny
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> C
> James Charles
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> Charles White
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> John White
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Fine art
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Monochrome paintings
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Boroughs
> City of London
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Boroughs
> City of Westminster
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Museums
> British Library
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Politics
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Politics
The Scrutiny of Filth - A Satirical Reflection on Political Scandal in 18th Century Britain
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This print, titled "The scrutiny, or examination of the filth, 1784" offers a glimpse into the political turmoil that engulfed Westminster during the general election. Depicting five men with expressions of disgust, holding their noses while examining chamber pots, this caricature serves as a scathing commentary on Charles Wray's demand for vote scrutiny. Intriguingly detailed, the image showcases two devilish figures lurking in the background, symbolizing the sinister nature of political manipulation. One man is even shown vomiting at the repulsive sight before him. The chamber pots are inscribed with "Poll book, 1784" highlighting Wray's contested poll results after finishing third behind Viscount Hood and Charles James Fox. Created by an anonymous artist from the 18th century using etching techniques, this satirical cartoon captures both the essence of political fraud and public revulsion towards such scandals. It now resides within Guildhall Library and Art Gallery as a testament to British history. "The Scrutiny of Filth" invites viewers to reflect upon not only past controversies but also enduring themes like power struggles and deceit within politics. By exploring this artwork's intricate details and symbolism, one gains insight into how satire has long been employed as a tool for social criticism throughout history.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
