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A Member of the Corporation preparing for a City feast, 1789
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A Member of the Corporation preparing for a City feast, 1789
A Member of the Corporation preparing for a City feast, 1789. A common councilman sits with his eyes shut, possibly holding his stomach in pain. He has presumably over-indulged already, and his stomach is ill-prepared for another civic blow-out
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Media ID 15172076
© London Metropolitan Archives (City of London) / Heritage-Images
Corporation Of London Feast Greedy Guildhall Library Art Gallery Pain Stomach Councilman
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this intriguing 18th-century caricature, titled "A Member of the Corporation preparing for a City feast, 1789" we are transported back in time to witness the comical scene of a common councilman getting ready for an extravagant city feast. The anonymous artist skillfully captures the essence of overindulgence and gluttony through his clever depiction. With his eyes tightly shut and possibly clutching his stomach in pain, it is evident that this councilman has already succumbed to excessive feasting. His weary expression suggests that he is ill-prepared for yet another civic blow-out. The vibrant colors used in this etching add depth and intensity to the scene, highlighting both the man's discomfort and the joviality surrounding him. This artwork serves as a satirical commentary on society during that era, where indulgence was often associated with power and prestige. Through exaggerated features and humorous details, such as his bulging stomach, we can't help but chuckle at this portrayal of greediness. Preserved within Guildhall Library Art Gallery's collection, this print offers us a glimpse into London's history while reminding us of timeless human tendencies. It invites contemplation on our own relationship with excesses and prompts us to reflect on how our desires may sometimes lead us astray.
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