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John Bull and the sinking fund, 1807. Artist: James Gillray
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John Bull and the sinking fund, 1807. Artist: James Gillray
John Bull and the sinking fund, 1807. A p(r)etty scheme for reducing the taxes and paying off the National Debt; showing John Bull on his hands and knees on a flat rock, an enormous money bag on his back. Lord Petty stands astride the mouth of the bag shovelling coins to greedy ministerialists outside the Treasury
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Media ID 15176474
© London Metropolitan Archives (City of London) / Heritage-Images
Chancellor Of The Exchequer Coin Coinage Currency Economy Gillray Henry Henry Petty Fitzmaurice James Gillray John Bull Lansdowne Marquess Of Marquess Of Lansdowne Money Sack Shovelling Treasury Allegorical Figure Economics National Debt Petty Fitzmaurice
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The captivating print titled "John Bull and the sinking fund, 1807" by artist James Gillray offers a satirical commentary on the economic state of Britain in the 19th century. Depicting an allegorical figure representing Britain, John Bull is seen on his hands and knees atop a flat rock burdened with an enormous money bag strapped to his back. Lord Petty, portrayed as a greedy statesman, stands astride the mouth of the bag, shoveling coins to ministerialists eagerly waiting outside the Treasury. This caricature cleverly illustrates a p (r)etty scheme for reducing taxes and paying off the National Debt. The image highlights how politicians like Lord Petty exploit John Bull's laborious efforts to fill their own pockets while seemingly addressing economic concerns. Through Gillray's masterful etching technique and use of color, this artwork captures both humor and criticism towards those in power. Displayed at Guildhall Library and Art Gallery, this print serves as a historical artifact reflecting upon England's financial landscape during that era. It symbolizes not only political satire but also sheds light on broader themes such as currency, economics, and national debt prevalent in 19th-century Britain. As viewers engage with this thought-provoking piece by James Gillray, they are invited to ponder upon timeless questions surrounding politics, finance, and societal dynamics that continue to resonate even today.
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