Satirized by: James Gillray (1757-1815)
Date Published: 1799
Historical Context: An English perspective contrasting the old government of France with the new. Here, Gillray recalls the delicate manners of the Ancien Régime, a term referring to the “Old Regime” of France, a political system consisting of an absolute monarchy and members of the nobility, which was violently abolished by the Revolutionaries during the French Revolution. The caricaturist here seems to be making a statement about the conflicting views of masculinity between the two governments. Court etiquette at the Palace of Versailles, originally instigated by “The Sun King” Louis XIV, was strict and followed very specific protocol (for more on the intricate procedures of Court etiquette at Versailles, check out this article from Paris Atelier). That being said, members of the nobility were expected to act with a certain dignity and grace about their persons at all times. The Revolutionaries, on the other hand, were arrogant and gruff, the complete opposite in manner when compared to the aristocrats of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette’s court.
I liked this post. I love looking at caricatures from that time. There's something special knowing that many of them were banned and yet highly influential.
I liked this post of yours!
I liked this post of yours!
Interesting! Political cartoons can tell you quite a bit about what the commoners are thinking.
I have seen Gilray's work before. Political and social satire of the time could get very personal and vicious. They certainly didn't hold back on their criticisms.
What a fun post
Very interesting! I'm fascinated by French history and really enjoyed this!