ENGELSCH NIEUWS. (English News.)

Date1780

MediumBlack and white line engraving

DimensionsOH: 14 1/2" x OW: 15 1/2"; Plate H: 9" x W: 12 1/2"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1960-88

DescriptionThe satire is set on the seashore and has heightened effect by utilizing storm clouds and celestial beings. (1) A Dutch sailor holds a paper of complaints and suggests that the English become better acquainted with Holland's present policies. He feels that all of his countrymen should support the embargo against British trade instead of a few surreptitiously trading with the enemy. (2) A man in clerical attire, symbolic of Dutch commerce, stands beside a large chest containing money. He advises the Dutch to protect their rights without inciting Britain to further action. (3) Mercury, now firmly established as the representative of commerce, pledges to help the Dutch even if to do so might be dangerous.

England is represented by a group on the left. (4) George III, in a long cloak, addresses (5) Lord N**** (North) concerning England's increasing troubles. (6) Lord Shelburne, a prominent member of the Opposition, stands with his back to the others as he examines a picture of religious riots (then prevalent in Britain) that is inscribed "Het verwar de Eiland" (Distracted Island). England's problems have become so serious that its leaders cannot resolve them.

(7) A tall figure represents Lord George Gordon, leader of the anti-popery riots. He proclaims his belief that the upsurge of Catholicism in England must be stopped even if violent action is necessary.

The figures in the cloud are victory, wearing a helmet and holding a picture of a ship, the Dutch lion who carries a staff with a liberty cap, and peace with a wreath and a globe on her head. This prophetic scene features black clouds over the English, the figures of peace and victory over Holland, and lightning about to strike Gordon.

A sea battle is raging in the background, while soldiers fight on the distant shore. One has already fallen.
ProvenanceEx coll: H. Dunscombe Colt. Other known copies: Halsey collection at Brown; New York Historical Society.