Civic combatants

description below

“Henry Hunt (right) hurls a jar of his ‘Hunts Matchless Blacki[ng]’ at the Lord Mayor (William Thompson). The Mayor, who wears his gown, raises the City mace defensively in both hands. Hunt registers frenzied rage; he holds a second jar in his left hand; at his feet is a paper: ‘Petition against increased Duty on Coals’. Just behind him is a pugnacious coal-heaver clutching a blacking-jar; he says: ‘Go it, my covey another black un–d–n me, if Blackey and Coaley can’t do it the devil’s in ’em.’ The Mayor smiles, despite a cascade of blacking. Behind him and on the extreme left is a barrister in wig and gown, probably the Recorder (Newman Knowlys). He says: ‘Mind what your at my hearty–keep up your favorite guard or he’ll beat you as black as his own factory.'”–British Museum online catalogue.

  • Printmaker: Phillips, John, active 1825-1831, printmaker.
  • Title: Civic combatants [graphic] / A. Sharpshooter fec.
  • Publication: [London] : Pub. by S. Gans, 15 Southampton St., Strand, June 1, 1829.

Catalog Record

829.06.01.08

Acquired June 2024

The true effigies of a city sword bearer

The true effigies of a city sword bearer. Detailed description below.

Satirical portrait of William Pickett, Lord Mayor of London for 1789; three-quarter length, seated; wearing the ceremonial gown and with a City of London sword hanging in the background; within a border composed of plates, cups, saucers, mugs, kettles, and a chamber pot, with two bears in the corners; a fire extinguisher and a string of “India crackers” hang below the border.

  • Title: The true effigies of a city sword bearer [graphic] / W. fecit.
  • Publication: [London] : Publishd. according to act of Parliament, June 1st, 1789, by E. Harding, [1 June 1789]

Catalog Record 

789.06.01.02

Acquired November 2018