The Patriots deceived, or Townsend triumphant.

Date1772

MediumLine engraving and etching on laid paper.

DimensionsOverall: 3 5/8 × 5 7/8in. (9.2 × 14.9cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1960-150

DescriptionLower margin reads: "The Patriots deceived, or Townsend triumphant."
Label TextJohn Wilkes, holding the cap of liberty on a staff and wearing a furred Alderman's gown, is stepping into a state coach. He is being pulled back by another alderman. A third alderman is clasping his hands in distress. On the left one alderman takes, though with an air of reluctance, money-bags and notes from another. All wear fur trimmed gowns. Behind a parson watches with a face of satisfaction; with him is a very large man. In the foreground a small boy appears to be clapping his hands while a dog barks. A little chimney sweep with brush and bag of soot points derisively at Wilkes. Behind, a man wearing a laced hat weeps into a handkerchief. Wilkes has been returned at the head of a poll for the mayoralty in 1772 but was rejected by the court of Alder men in favor of Alderman Townsend, one of the city patriots who had quarreled with Wilkes.

Published in the "Town and Country Magazine," IV, 585.