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The Economic Balancing Act: A Satirical View of 1780 Britain
About the Item
Title: "The Economic Balancing Act: A Satirical View of 1780 Britain"
This original etching and engraving, circa 1780, is a satirical commentary on the precarious state of the British economy during a tumultuous period marked by the Fourth Anglo-Dutch War and the American Revolution. Crafted by an unknown master after a design by Hendrik Kobell, a Dutch artist, the scene vividly encapsulates the economic and political tensions of the era.
The central image presents the British Exchange Bank, precariously suspended on the horn of a unicorn, floating among the clouds. This fantastical and unstable position symbolizes the fragile state of British finances. Below, the Anglo-minded Dutch merchant navy is depicted as the sole support keeping the bank aloft, signifying the Netherlands' pivotal role in British economic affairs at the time.
To the right, a French figure is shown pulling an Englishman away from the bank, a gesture that is encouraged by a Spanish character and assisted by an Indian figure, representing the international pressures and alliances challenging British dominance. In the background, the serene Dutch landscape, complete with prosperous windmills and dairy cattle, contrasts sharply with the chaotic scene in the foreground, alluding to the stability and wealth of the Netherlands in contrast to Britain's predicaments.
The etching is framed within an illustrated stone border, suggesting that the political turmoil is a spectacle to be observed. Below the image, two verses, one in English and the other in Dutch, offer commentary on the scene, reinforcing the satirical message.
Accompanying the print is a separately printed explanation, providing context to the viewer. The etching is in good condition, with a clear impression on paper that bears sufficient margins. Some creases are present, and the left edge shows slight fraying, with folding likely as originally issued. The verso is blank.
This piece stands as a compelling and critical piece of political satire, offering a historical snapshot of 18th-century economic and political dynamics through the sharp lens of humor and artistry.
The Old English text:
Bold Jack! pray, what's the business to-day?
Phoo! pox! a plot mistaken for a play.
This hurly-burly spoils your sport - you'll find,
There's shinum to your face, and more behind.
Amazing Fool! yet tottering on thy bench,
Tho' scorn'd by Spain, and cozzen'd by the French -
Only the Dutch, not laughing at your nose,
Good-natur'd helps, to snatch what e'er you lose.
The Old Dutch text:
Heeze! tienduizendmaal! van dik hout zaagt men deelen.
't Gaat wel by kris en kras dat heet een hoofdrol speelen.
Puf Spaansch en Fransch Messeurs; die poen heeft maakt figuur.
Maar lieve Jack! zie toe dat 't somlen staat te duur.
O Boston! Delaware! o Washington! o Francken!
Zo mogt Mylord wel haast een hangmans hoorntje dancken.
De Batavier houdt noch uw Bankspel in den haak.
Vermeette! loon die trouw of vrees geregte wraak.
This text appears to be a satirical verse, commenting on the political and economic situation of the time, referencing various nations and suggesting a sense of caution or criticism towards certain actions or actors. The use of colloquial terms and references to contemporary figures or events suggest it was meant to resonate with an informed audience of the period. The Dutch roughly translated to English:
Hooray! Ten thousand times! From thick wood, parts are sawn.
All goes well by hook and by crook, that's called playing a leading role.
Puff, Spanish and French Sirs; he who has money makes a figure.
But dear Jack! take care that the scam isn't too costly.
Oh Boston! Delaware! Oh Washington! Oh Frenchmen!
Soon Mylord might thank a hangman's little horn.
The Batavian still keeps your bank game on the hook.
Presumptuous! Reward loyalty or fear just revenge.
- Dimensions:Height: 12.45 in (31.6 cm)Width: 16.23 in (41.2 cm)Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)
- Materials and Techniques:Paper,Engraved
- Period:1780-1789
- Date of Manufacture:1780
- Condition:Very good. Some wear and creases, but mostly around the edges. The image itself clean. Vertical folding lines have been flattened. Study the images carefully.
- Seller Location:Langweer, NL
- Reference Number:Seller: BG-136341stDibs: LU3054337795742
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