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The Hand-Writing upon the Wall, pub. 1803 (hand coloured engraving)
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The Hand-Writing upon the Wall, pub. 1803 (hand coloured engraving)
2636942 The Hand-Writing upon the Wall, pub. 1803 (hand coloured engraving) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Private Collection; (add.info.: Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821); Josephine (1763-1814); ); The Stapleton Collection; English, out of copyright
Media ID 22597886
© The Stapleton Collection / Bridgeman Images
Bank Of England Banquet Bonnet Rouge Bosom Bottles Cleavage Consort Daniel Delicacies Empress Josephine Feast French Flag Guard Hussar Hussars Imperial Guard Napoleon Bonaparte Obese Political Satire Prophesy Scales Warning
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The Hand-Writing upon the Wall
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating and thought-provoking print that takes us back to 1803, showcasing the artistic genius of James Gillray. This hand-coloured engraving depicts a scene filled with political satire and symbolism. In this satirical masterpiece, we see Napoleon Bonaparte, accompanied by his consort Josephine, surrounded by an extravagant banquet. The obese soldier sits at the head of the table, sword in hand, while hussars and members of the imperial guard indulge in delicacies. A bonnet rouge rests on Napoleon's head as a symbol of revolution. The image cleverly references biblical stories from the Old Testament. The scales held by soldiers represent impending judgment or warning for their actions. Meanwhile, bottles scattered across the table allude to excessive drinking and indulgence. Gillray's caricature captures both humor and critique as it mocks Napoleon's power-hungry nature and France's lavish lifestyle under his rule. Through this print, he highlights themes such as prophecy, excesses of power, and moral decay within society. "The Hand-Writing upon the Wall" is not only visually stunning but also serves as a historical document reflecting political sentiments during that era. It reminds us that art can be used to convey powerful messages beyond its aesthetic appeal alone.
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