Home > Arts > Artists > G > James Gillray
Tentanda via est qua me quoque possim Tollere humo, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1810
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Tentanda via est qua me quoque possim Tollere humo, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1810
NCO190429 Tentanda via est qua me quoque possim Tollere humo, published by Hannah Humphrey in 1810 (etching, engraving, aquatint & w/c on paper) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); 51.3x39.1 cm; Courtesy of the Warden and Scholars of New College, Oxford; (add.info.: There is a path offered to me through which I can raise myself from the ground; Lord Grenville (1749-1834) installed as Chancellor of Oxford; carried in a hot-air balloon in the shape of Lord Temple; ridiculed for his enormous backside; reference to Grenvilles support for Catholic Emancipation; ); English, out of copyright
Media ID 23356244
© Bridgeman Images
Academic Carnival Christ Church Cathedral Grotesque Harlequin Inflated Merriment Mortar Board Scholar Sheldonian Theatre Regency
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Farm
> Donkeys
> Related Images
> Animals
> Mammals
> Nesomyidae
> Fat Mouse
> Arts
> Artists
> G
> James Gillray
> Arts
> Pop art
> Satire
> Satirical artwork
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Fra (c.1387-1455) Angelico
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> James Gillray
> Fine Art Finder
> Cartoons, Caricatures & Humour
> Historic
> Medieval architecture
> Cathedrals and churches
> Church history
> Popular Themes
> Dance
EDITORS COMMENTS
This vibrant and whimsical print, titled "Tentanda via est qua me quoque possim Tollere humo" captures a moment of merriment and satire from the Regency era. Created by James Gillray in 1810, this etching, engraving, aquatint & watercolor on paper was published by Hannah Humphrey. The scene depicted is both comical and symbolic. Lord Grenville, recently installed as Chancellor of Oxford, is shown being carried aloft in a hot-air balloon shaped like Lord Temple. However, what truly stands out is the exaggerated portrayal of Grenville's enormous backside. This caricature pokes fun at his support for Catholic Emancipation while also highlighting his physical appearance. Surrounded by a carnival-like atmosphere with dancing scholars and an inflated mortar board floating above Christ Church Cathedral, the image reflects the festive nature of academic ceremonies during that time period. The procession towards Sheldonian Theatre adds to the sense of grandeur and celebration. Gillray's use of grotesque elements further enhances the satirical tone of this piece. A bishop riding a donkey can be seen in the background, adding another layer of humor to the scene. Overall, "Tentanda via est qua me quoque possim Tollere humo" offers viewers a glimpse into an era where art served not only as entertainment but also as social commentary. It invites us to reflect on how power and authority were perceived during that time while providing ample amusement through its
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.
