In the 18th and the beginning of the 19th century the political tensions that existed between France and England found a new manner of expression in the satirical prints, very popular at that time. These weren't a new thing, but in that era the artists managed to capture the national stereotypes of both countries in their satires and caricatures, with great skill and paying close attention to detail.
The Fitzwilliam Museum in Great Britain is presenting until the 5th of August an exhibition dedicated to this fascinating period in the history of graphical arts, titled " Vive la difference! The English and French stereotype in satirical prints 1720-1815", an original and inteligent phrase which describes best the themes and atmosphere at that time. The works selected cover a time frame rich in events, from the Seven Years' War to the French Revolution, showcasing the changes, techniques, subjects and ideas used in both countries.
The English were the first, portraying their French rivals in brillian satirical compositions, signed by artists such as William Hogarth (perhaps the best in the field), Henry Bunbury or James Gillray. Their works, highly detailed, are characterized seldom by a dry humous, which places the French in a very unpleasant and critical light. On the other hand, the French counterparts were paying close attention to the English works, but chose to work in a very different style, keeping the same degree of humour.
The exhibition is presenting some of the best works of this type, highlighting the manner in which the ancient rivalry found it's way in the world of graphical arts and offering a chance of discovering each country's history, preoccupations and culture. More than that, is offers the images that each side had of the others, often fascinating and still amusing.
Photo : fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk
June 2007
