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LIQUOR TAX CARTOON, 1796. The Wine Duty, or The Triumph of Bacchus and Silenus
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LIQUOR TAX CARTOON, 1796. The Wine Duty, or The Triumph of Bacchus and Silenus
LIQUOR TAX CARTOON, 1796.
The Wine Duty, or The Triumph of Bacchus and Silenus with John Bulls Remonstrance. John Bull petitioning William Pitt and Henry Dundas to lighten the liquor tax. Cartoon by James Gillray, 1796
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Media ID 12234425
1796 Barrel Bench Deity Dionysus Drunk Drunkard Gillray Glass Grape Henri Intoxicated John Bull Liquor Parody Petition Pitt Pleading Political Protester Satirical Statesman Triumph William Wine Younger Dundas Silenus Treasurer
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from 1796, titled "LIQUOR TAX CARTOON" offers a satirical glimpse into the political climate of England during that time. Created by renowned cartoonist James Gillray, this artwork showcases his wit and talent for social commentary. In the center of the image, we see John Bull, a personification of England, pleading with statesmen William Pitt and Henry Dundas to lighten the burdensome liquor tax. With an expression of desperation on his face, John Bull represents the common man's struggle against excessive taxation. Surrounding John Bull are various figures symbolizing different aspects of society affected by this tax. Bacchus and Silenus, deities associated with wine and revelry in Greek mythology, stand triumphantly atop a barrel as if mocking those burdened by high taxes. A group of intoxicated men can be seen nearby, highlighting the consequences of heavy drinking resulting from exorbitant prices. Gillray's use of parody and satire is evident throughout this piece. By juxtaposing these mythical figures with real-life politicians like Pitt and Dundas, he cleverly criticizes their policies while entertaining viewers with his artistic flair. This historical print serves as both a visual delight and an important artifact reflecting societal concerns surrounding taxation in late 18th-century England. It reminds us that political cartoons have long been powerful tools for expressing dissent and challenging authority.
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