Description:

American Revolution
[Netherlands], ca. 1780
American Revolution Engraving "A Picturesque View of the State of Great Britain for 1780"
Art
An engraving of "A Picturesque View of the State of Great Britain for 1780." Measuring 10.5" x 7.75", n.p., ca. 1780. An oblong caricature engraving of a Milch cow being subjected to numerous people taking advantage of her milk and horns. A man wearing a feathered headdress is sawing off one horn, while another man is milking her as others look on. The city of Philadelphia can be seen in the background. The engraving has a caption written in pencil on verso. Toning and moderate foxing throughout, with pin holes at the corners. Possible mounting residue on verso. Overall good.

The engraving, which initially appeared in Westminster Magazine in February 1778, was frequently re-engraved. This version was issued without a date or credit line, but it is believed to have been printed in the Netherlands. The Westminster Magazine described the scene as follows:
"I. The commerce of Great Britain, represented in the figure of a Milch-Cow.
II. The American Congress sawing off her horns, which are her natural strength and defence: one being already gone, the other just a-going.
III. The jolly, plump Dutchman milking the poor tame Cow with great glee.
IV and V. The Frenchman and Spaniard, each catching at their respective shares of the produce, and running away with bowls brimming full, laughing to one another at their success.
VI. The good ship Eagle laid up, and moved at some distance from Philadelphia, without sails or guns, ... all the rest of the fleet invisible, nobody knows where.
VII. The two Brothers napping it, one against the other, in the City of Philadelphia, out of sight of fleet and army.
VIII. The British Lion lying on the ground fast asleep, so that a pug-dog tramples upon him, as on a lifeless log: he seems to see nothing, hear nothing, and feel nothing.
IX. A Free Englishman in mourning standing by him, wringing his hands, casting up his eyes in despondency and despair, but unable to rouse the Lion to correct all these invaders of his Royal Prerogative, and his subjects' property."

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 10.5" x 7.75"
  • Medium: Art

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