Downfall of Monopoly in 1800

published 1800

Thomas Rowlandson

Associated Names
Thomas Rowlandson

Artist, British, 1756 - 1827

This is a drawing depicting a chaotic scene involving the downfall of monopoly in 1800. The image shows a crowded caricature with dynamic, exaggerated movements. On the left side, a group of men representing different commodities are struggling and being swept away. Each man is dressed in distinctive 18th-century attire with expressions of shock or distress. A skeletal figure on a horse, referencing Death, ominously moves through the crowd, whipping them along. 

On the right side, there is a more serene atmosphere with women and children basking in light. A large statue holding a trident symbolizes justice or authority, overseeing the scene. Sailing ships are visible in the distant sea under a bright sky. 

The artwork is rich in satire, exaggerating the figures to amplify the drama and turmoil associated with the end of monopolistic control during the period.

Media Options

This object’s media is free and in the public domain. Read our full Open Access policy for images.

Artwork overview

  • Medium

    hand-colored etching

  • Credit Line

    Rosenwald Collection

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 35.7 × 47.3 cm (14 1/16 × 18 5/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1945.5.369

Associated Artworks

See all 237 artworks
The image shows a bustling market scene from a street-level point of view. The horizon line is low and there are pedestrians going about their day. A fountain or statue is on the right side, with detailed architecture, including a church with a steeple on the left. The painting style is detailed with clear textures and architectural elements. The color palette is warm with earthy tones dominating. Market vendors and townsfolk are interacting lively with carts and goods, adding movement. The buildings continue into the distance with less detail.

Place de Meir at Antwerp

Thomas Rowlandson

1797

Caricatures (volume IIA)

Thomas Rowlandson

1756

Pot Fair Cambridge

Thomas Rowlandson

1756


Artwork history & notes

Wikidata ID

Q65026023

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