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The Screen, 1742 (etching)
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The Screen, 1742 (etching)
XJF863022 The Screen, 1742 (etching) by English School, (18th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: John Campbell, 2nd Duke of Argyll is restrained by his brother Lord Ilay as he is about to reveal the extent of royal patronage (George II) and corruption of Robert Walpole, 1st Earl of Orford (shown as Punch) with Sir Benjamin Keene (British ambassador to Spain). Walpole was forced to resign as prime minister in February 1742.
); English, out of copyright
Media ID 12939760
© www.bridgemanimages.com
Ambassador Comet Corrupt Corruption Crisis Diplomacy Diplomat Downfall Prime Minister Punch Symbolism Union
The Screen, 1742 - A Satirical Depiction of Political Corruption and Royal Patronage
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This print showcases "The Screen" an etching created by the English School in the 18th century. The artwork, held in a private collection, offers a satirical glimpse into a significant political event of its time. In this scene, John Campbell, the 2nd Duke of Argyll, is being restrained by his brother Lord Ilay as he prepares to expose the extent of royal patronage and corruption involving Robert Walpole, the 1st Earl of Orford. Walpole is humorously portrayed as Punch while standing alongside Sir Benjamin Keene, British ambassador to Spain. The etching captures a pivotal moment when Walpole was forced to resign as prime minister in February 1742 due to mounting pressure surrounding his alleged misconduct. Symbolism and allegory are employed throughout the artwork; notable elements include references to money, taxation issues within Scotland's union with England, diplomatic relations with Spain represented by Sir Benjamin Keene's presence, and even a comet signifying impending crisis or downfall. Through its clever use of satire and caricatured figures representing key players in politics at that time, "The Screen" serves as both historical documentation and biting commentary on corruption within government systems.
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