Ancient Books

Friday, February 25, 2011

James Gillray: The Art of Caricature

James Gillray (1756-1815) was the leading caricaturist of his time and is now admired as an artist of outstanding inventiveness and originality whose work continues to influence contemporary cartoonists. His prints of the political characters and events of the age, particularly the French Revolution, are among the most memorable and outrageously comical images in the history of British art. This book demonstrates the full range of his inventive powers. While grounded in the political and social realities of his time, the wit and robust vulgarity of Gallery's images continues to be engaging, even shocking, for a contemporary audience. Moreover, his ferocious satires on the themes of sleaze, vanity, and tyranny among politicians and royalty have an abiding currency and interest, while his savage visual commentary on national character and prejudice are still relevant. Through inventive interpretation, this book brings the key actors in Gallery's world alive, including such celebrated historical figures as Napoleon, Pit the Younger, and Emma Hamilton.