Dissolution of Parliament

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Robert Seymour
1798-1836
Dissolution of Parliament
[London] : [G. Cowie],
wood engraving
2 3/4 x 3 3/8 in.
Peel 2139
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. 53, 1832, with the same title.

Summary: 

A shallow bowl, supported on a stand, acts as 'Filter of Public Opinion', the liquid pouring through it into a pool inscribed 'Freedom Integrity Talent'. This comes from a receptacle marked with a crown and inscribed 'Dissolving Acid' [i.e. Reform], and issues from a tap which William IV turns on, while he stirs the contents of the 'Filter'. These are 'the last mass of corruption' and consist of the heads of Tories surrounded by viscous fluid with inscriptions. The six in the centre of the heap are Wellington, 'Obstinacy'; Eldon, 'Corruption'; Lyndhurst; Wetherell, 'Buffoonery'; Goulburn, 'Corruption'; Newcastle, 'Tyranny'. The three others are (?) Wharncliffe, 'Folly'; (?) Aberdeen, 'Corruption', and (undescribed) Peel.

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