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Direct scan of object
The BOSTONIANS in DISTRESS.
Direct scan of object

The BOSTONIANS in DISTRESS.

DateNovember 19, 1774
Engraver Johann Martin Will
Publisher Robert Sayer (1725-1794) & John Bennett (fl. 1760-1787)
OriginEngland, London
MediumBlack and white mezzotint engraving
DimensionsOH: 15 7/8" x OW: 11 1/4"; Plate H: 14 3/4" x W: 9 1/4"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1960-129
DescriptionThe lower margin reads: "Ioh Martin Will excudit Aug Vind/ The BOSTONIANS in DISTRESS./ London, Printed for R. Sayer & J. Bennett, Map & Printsellers, N.o 53 Fleet Street, as the Act directs, 19 Nov.r 1774."

The maker has symbolized the closing of the port by placing the Bostonians in a cage suspended from the Liberty Tree. Three men in a small boat are attempting to feed citizens with fish placed on the ends of long poles that are then thrust through bars. British soldiers on the shore are supported by cannons, and the ships in the harbor symbolize the continued blockade.



ProvenanceEx coll: H. Dunscombe Colt. Other known copies: Halsey collection at Brown; New york Historical Society.