This is a fine original antique hand-coloured etching by Charles Williams (fl. 1797 - 1830). It was publised in 1827 by Samuel Knight (or Knights) (fl. 1805 - 1841), London.
It is all nicely framed and ready just to hang on your wall.
It is certainly a very interesting satirical print - of museum quality - and indeed an impression is in the collection of the National Portrait Gallery, London.
The artwork is entitled "Loaves and Fishes". This refers to a political phrase denoting a self-interested scramble for government positions or office, and a lust for patronage by politicians.
HISTORY: The print shows the Prime Minister, George Canning (1770 - 1827) handing out to an unruly crowd fresh loaves of bread. There is almost a frenzy amongst the figures in trying to be favoured with his freshly-baked tasty morsels. Canning's rule as PM was very short-lived and he died in 1827 after being only four months in office. Members of the London establishment are almost falling over themselves to get the tit-bits he is offering. Wellington can be clearly seen near the centre of the crowd.
Other famous faces to be seen in the crowd include:
a/ James Scarlett, !st Baron Abinger, Chief Baron of the Exchequer b/ Henry Brougham, 1st Baron Brougham and Vaux, Lord Chancellor c/ Sir Francis Burdett, Parliamentary Reformer d/John Scott, 1st Earl of Eldon, Lord Chancellor e/ Joseph Hume, Doctor and Politician f/ Sir John Leach, Master of the Rolls g/ John Singleton Copley, Lord Chancellor and Politician,
How interesting that that the granting of parliamentary favours in Westminster never really changes over the centuries. And that the issuing of these appointments to an elite few is compared to miraculous acts from the Bible. How could they possibly be wrong?
Dimensions: The frame is 37.5 x 45.5 cm. The image size is 25.5 x 35.5cm.
This is a very interesting Georgian politicial print, and indeed a rare one. It is in fine condition - with etched lines and contemporary 19th-century watercolour hand colouring. The colours are bright and the paper without issue.
It will have to be posted only to the UK. The postage will be with Parcelforce24 and applied to your order at the checkout.