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Robert Seymour
1798-1836
The political Frankenstein
Published
[London] : [William Strange], [ca. 1834]
wood-engraving
2 9/16 x 3 1/8 inches
Purchased by J. Pierpont Morgan, 1900.
Peel 2176
Notes
Probably detached from one of four issues of Whiggeries and waggeries, London : William Strange, 1834. This publication reprinted wood engravings by Robert Seymour, Robert Cruikshank, and others which had previously appeared-- often with different captions-- in Figaro in London, also published by Strange. The identical image appeared in Figaro in London, no. 21, 1832, with the same title.
Provenance
Formerly owned by Sir Robert Peel.
Summary
The Reform Bill sits awaiting the 'vital spark', while Grey, as Frankenstein, 'a student of political alchemy', stands over it, his task completed. The tube of a retort is in the creature's mouth, while Brougham (left) blows with bellows the fierce fire under the retort. Looking in through the panes of a Gothic window (left) is the frightened head of a servant, Wetherell, who like 'his mercenary employers' regards the Bill as a monster. As before the arms are 'Schedule A' and 'Schedule B', the legs '[Prope]rty' and 'Population'.
Associated names
Peel, Robert, 1788-1850, former owner.
Strange, W. (William), publisher.
Cowie, G. (George), printer.
Strange, W. (William). Whiggeries and waggeries.
Strange, W. (William). Figaro in London.
Strange, W. (William), publisher.
Cowie, G. (George), printer.
Strange, W. (William). Whiggeries and waggeries.
Strange, W. (William). Figaro in London.
Artist
Classification
Department
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