All ALIVE or The POLITICAL CHURCHYARD.

DateAugust 9, 1783

Publisher B. Pownall

MediumBlack and white line engraving

DimensionsOH: 9 5/8" x OW: 13 3/4"; Plate H: 8 7/8" x W: 13 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1960-114

DescriptionThe lower margin reads: "Pub according to Act by B. Pownall. N.o 6. Pallmall Aug. 9. 1783."

The tomb and graveyard symbolism periodically employed in satiric design is used here to comment effectively on the British political leaders involved in the Revolution and the subsequent peace negotiations. Each of the tombs and stones has appropriate markers; most are inscribed with only the key letters of the individual's name and caustic comments on his activities. Today a number of them are unknown or long forgotten, but the principal government figures are easily understood.

The three front center stones are reserved as follows: Burke, left, "Here Lieth Edd. B---e Oeconomist Extraordinary To his Majesty. To Save his breath He welcom'd death." North, center, "Here Lieth L--d N--H. I'm gone to realms below, To find more Cause for woe." Fox, right, "Here Lieth C---S F--x. The game I play'd, I have lost by a Spade, My partner was wrong For he shuffl'd to long."

An elaborately decorated pyramid tomb surrounded by a fence stands in the center. Belonging to Pitt, it is inscribed: Here Lieth The Honble Wm P--tt. Thou cov'rest Earth Unequall'd Worth."

Just behind Burke's tomb to the left is that of King George: "I gover'nd all with --- decree But now alas, Death governs me." Placing his tomb to the rear of his ministers' again emphasizes the subordinate position he assumed during the war.

As suggested by the title, all of the politicians are alive, but their political careers are either completely over or are in danger. The king would continue to reign for many years, but always under the influence of others.
ProvenanceEx coll: H. Dunscombe Colt. Other known copies: Peel collection at the Morgan Library.