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Caricature of French Royals
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Caricature of French Royals
A caricature of the French Royal Family as Rare Animals being herded into exile by a revolutionary shepherd. Date: 18th Century
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Media ID 20148559
© Bubblepunk
Antoinette Caricatures Exile Herded Marie Rare Revolution Revolutionary Satirical Shepherd
EDITORS COMMENTS
This striking caricature from the 18th century captures the tumultuous events of the French Revolution through the satirical lens of a master artist. The image depicts the French Royal Family, including King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette, transformed into rare and exotic animals being herded into exile by a revolutionary shepherd. The King is portrayed as a zebra, symbolizing his dual nature as both French and Austrian, while the Queen is depicted as an elephant, alluding to her perceived extravagance and wealth. The revolutionary shepherd, with a tricolor cockade on his hat and a musket slung over his shoulder, represents the rising power of the common people and their determination to overthrow the monarchy. The other figures in the scene include the Dauphin as a giraffe, the Comte de Provence as a rhinoceros, and the Duke of Orleans as a tiger. This caricature was created during a time of great upheaval in French history, as the country grappled with the consequences of economic hardship, political instability, and social unrest. The image reflects the public's growing disillusionment with the monarchy and their perceived out-of-touch lifestyle, as well as their desire for change and a more equitable society. The use of animals as a metaphor for the royal family was a common satirical device during the Revolution, and this print offers a fascinating glimpse into the political and social climate of the time. Overall, this caricature is an important historical artifact that sheds light on the complex and often contradictory nature of the French Revolution, as well as the power of satire as a means of expressing political dissent and shaping public opinion.
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