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Midas, Transmuting all into [Gold] Paper, pub. 1797 (hand coloured engraving)
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Midas, Transmuting all into [Gold] Paper, pub. 1797 (hand coloured engraving)
2966815 Midas, Transmuting all into [Gold] Paper, pub. 1797 (hand coloured engraving) by Gillray, James (1757-1815); Private Collection; (add.info.: reference to the issue of paper money after a run on the Bank of England on 26th February 1797; William Pitt (1759-1806) depicted as a giant standing over the bank; Opposition heads in the rushes; storm cloud coming from France; ); The Stapleton Collection; English, out of copyright
Media ID 23446536
© The Stapleton Collection / Bridgeman Images
Bacchus Chain Coins Controlling Devaluation English Channel Expelling Financial Crisis Fool Foolish Funding Mighty Note Padlock Political Satire Powerful Prime Minister Putti Small Tiny Towering Cherubim Cherubs Coin Gullet War Funds
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The captivating print titled "Midas, Transmuting all into [Gold] Paper" by James Gillray is a remarkable piece of political satire from 1797. This hand-coloured engraving depicts the aftermath of a financial crisis in England, specifically referencing the issue of paper money following a run on the Bank of England. In this satirical masterpiece, William Pitt, the Prime Minister at that time, is portrayed as a towering giant with a massive belly made entirely of gold coins. With donkey ears symbolizing foolishness and diminutive figures representing his opposition heads in the rushes, Gillray brilliantly captures the essence of this national bankruptcy. The image also includes various symbolic elements such as storm clouds emanating from France and an English channel transformed into Bacchus' gullet. These details emphasize both external threats and internal mismanagement contributing to the financial turmoil. Gillray's artistic genius lies not only in his ability to create visually striking caricatures but also in his clever use of imagery to convey complex political messages. The key and padlock represent Pitt's control over funding while expelling paper money through his mouth signifies devaluation. This print serves as a powerful reminder of how those in positions of power can manipulate currency for their own gain while leaving ordinary citizens vulnerable to economic instability. It stands as an enduring testament to Gillray's mastery as one of history's most influential political cartoonists.
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