The Times

probably 1783

Thomas Rowlandson

Associated Names
Thomas Rowlandson

Artist, British, 1756 - 1827

This is a painting depicting allegorical figures engaged in a complex interaction. In the center, a person symbolizing a governing or royal figure is seated on a throne, gesturing outward with a dramatic pose. Flanking this central figure are various allegorical characters such as Liberty holding a pole with a "Liberty" hat and a figure resembling Justice holding scales and a sword. These figures are surrounded by objects and symbols like the British flag, a shield with a cross, and a lion, representing virtues and national identity like "Virtue," "Patriotism," "Public Safety," and the "Voice of the People." Other figures portray trade or commerce, as well as sinister characters suggesting rebellion and chaos. The composition features detailed linework and vivid colors, creating a satirical and political narrative reminiscent of caricature. This painting is in the style of James Gillray, a artist known for his satirical political art in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    hand-colored etching

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 30.2 × 43 cm (11 7/8 × 16 15/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1945.5.131

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Grego 1880, Vol. I, no. 110

Associated Artworks

See all 199 artworks

The Village Doctor

Thomas Rowlandson

1774

Caricatures (volume I)

Thomas Rowlandson

1756

The School of Eloquence

Thomas Rowlandson

1780


Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1880

  • Grego, Joseph. Rowlandson the caricaturist; a selection from his works with anecdotal descriptions of his famous caricatures. 2 vols. London: Chattoand Windus, 1880. Reprint. New York: Collector's Editions, 1970.

Wikidata ID

Q65025808

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