The King of Brobdingnag and Gulliver (Plate. 2d), [1803 - 1804]
Scope and Contents
Artist: James Gilray. After: Lt-Col Thomas Braddyll. Published: Hannah Humphrey. The King and Queen sit on chairs of state intently watching a rectangular tank in which Napoleon as Gulliver sails his little boat, manoeuvring the single sail. Behind the King's chair Lord Salisbury stands stiffly, holding his wand of office; the gold key is attached to his coat-pocket: he has the straight shapeless legs that Gillray always gives him. Two princesses sit beside the tank on the Queen's right; like the Queen, each holds up her fan. Two younger princesses stand behind. Two little pages (left) blow violently at the sail to propel the boat, while a third laughs. Two beefeaters (right) grin broadly. All are amused except the King and Queen, who are more serious. After the title: 'Scene - "Gulliver manoeuv'ring with his little-Boat in the Cistern." - Vide, Swifts Gulliver. "I often used to Row for my own diversion, as well as that of the Queen & her Ladies, who thought themselves well entertained with my skill & agility. Sometimes I would put up my Sail and shew my art, by steering starboard & larboard, - However, my attempts produced nothing else besides a loud laughter, which all the respect due to his Majesty from those about him could not make them contain. - This made me reflect, how vain an attempt it is for a man to endeavour to do himself honour among those, who are out of all degree of equality or comparison with him!!! - See, Voyage to Brobdingnag - '. Description from the British Museum.
Dates
- Creation: [1803 - 1804]
Conditions Governing Access
Physical item available by appointment in our Reading Room
Extent
1.0 Item(s)
Language of Materials
English
Repository Details
Part of the Special Collections and Archives Repository
Western Bank Library
University of Sheffield
Western Bank
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