William Humphrey
The battle royal, or, Who wears the breeches
Published
[London] : Pubd. Jany 15, 1784 by W. Humprey [sic] 227 Strand, [1784]
etching
image: 215 x 330 mm; plate mark: 245 x 351 mm; sheet: 237 x 330 mm
Peel 3257
Notes
Title from item.
Etched in the manner of Gillray.
Library's copy trimmed within plate mark.
Etched in the manner of Gillray.
Library's copy trimmed within plate mark.
Provenance
Formerly owned by Sir Robert Peel.
Summary
A blindfolded George III, holding a sword and the scales of justice, stands on a dais as two contending groups of government ministers play tug of war with the king's breeches (labelled "government"). On the left are Fox, North, Burke and Townshend, and on the right several less identifiable figures, possibly including Pitt, the Duke of Richmond, and Lord Sydney.
Associated names
Humphrey, William, approximately 1740-approximately 1810, publisher.
Peel, Robert, 1788-1850, former owner.
Peel, Robert, 1788-1850, former owner.
Artist
Classification
Department
Century prints
Catalog link