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The Westminster Deserter drum d out of the regiment, 1784. Artist
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The Westminster Deserter drum d out of the regiment, 1784. Artist
The Westminster Deserter drum d out of the regiment, 1784. Sir Cecil Wray being drummed away from the hustings in Covent Garden. Sam House is in the centre and Charles James Fox is on the right. Wray is walking beside a procession headed by Chelsea Pensioners, who are followed by a body of maidservants. Wray was a Whig who defected and stood against Fox in the 1784 general election. House was a well-known innkeeper and an active supporter of Fox
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Media ID 15177500
© London Metropolitan Archives (City of London) / Heritage-Images
Cecil Cecil Wray Charles Fox Charles James Charles James Fox Chelsea Pensioner Covent Garden Deserter Drum Drummer General Election Humiliated Humiliation Innkeeper Political Event Publican Rival Rowlandson Sam House Shame Sir Cecil Wray Supporter Thomas Rowlandson Whig Wray City Of Westminster
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The Westminster Deserter Drummed Out of the Regiment, 1784 - A Humiliating Defeat in Covent Garden
EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this print from the 18th century, we witness a moment of political disgrace and public humiliation. The artist, Thomas Rowlandson, masterfully captures the scene as Sir Cecil Wray is drummed away from the hustings in Covent Garden. This satirical caricature depicts a significant event during the 1784 general election when Wray, a Whig who had defected against Charles James Fox, suffered an embarrassing defeat. At the center of attention stands Sam House, a well-known innkeeper and ardent supporter of Fox. He leads a procession that includes Chelsea Pensioners at its forefront followed by a group of maidservants. Wray walks beside them with his head bowed low in shame. Rowlandson's etching skillfully portrays not only the physical setting but also conveys the emotional weight carried by Wray's humiliated figure. The contrast between light and shadow adds depth to this poignant image. Displayed at Guildhall Library and Art Gallery today, this historic artwork offers us insight into both political rivalries and social dynamics of 18th-century Britain. It serves as a reminder that even those in positions of power can face public scrutiny and downfall when they betray their principles or defy popular sentiment. This remarkable piece invites viewers to reflect on timeless themes such as loyalty, integrity, and consequences for one's actions – resonating far beyond its original context over two centuries ago.
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