The hen-peck'd monarch / [Seymour] ; [Welch].

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Robert Seymour
1798-1836
The hen-peck'd monarch / [Seymour] ; [Welch].
[London] : [G. Cowie],
engraving
2 3/4 x 3 3/8 in.
Peel 2161
Provenance: 
Formerly owned by Sir Robert Peel.
Notes: 

Probably detached from one of four issues of Whiggeries and waggeries, London : William Strange, 1834. This publication reprinted wood engravings by Robert Seymour, Robert Cruikshank, and others which had previously appeared-- often with different captions-- in Figaro in London, also published by Strange. The identical image appeared in Figaro in London, no. 24, 1832, with the same title.

Summary: 

Queen Adelaide, petticoat rolled up to show breeches, sits on the back of King William IV who is on hands and knees without his breeches, and with his hands bound by a ribbon inscribed 'Family Ties'. She wears the crown, and steadies it as it topples. Prince George of Cumberland, a boy in military uniform, leans on the sceptre, while the Duchess of Kent tosses the orb for Princess Victoria to catch.

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