Temperance Enjoying a Frugal Meal (July 28, 1792, Met-Objekt 4400)
Original title: Temperance Enjoying a Frugal Meal
kurzbeschreibung
James Gillray's 1792 caricature 'Temperance Enjoying a Frugal Meal' presents a figure embodying Temperance, seated at a table and taking a modest repast. The print is a hand-colored etching measuring 36.5 x 30 cm.
Description
A person dressed in eighteenth-century clothing sits at a table holding a small golden dish. Before them rest a salad bowl, an egg, a liquid-filled basin and a jug inscribed 'AQUA'. A second figure can be made out at another table further back, also eating a plain meal. With its fireplace, mirror, paintings and other furnishings, the room looks richly appointed; warm gold and red tones set the mood.
Context
The caricature appeared in England in 1792, during a period of political and social upheaval following the French Revolution. Satirical prints of the day were often used to comment on social norms and political events. Gillray was known for his close observation of English daily life and of the upper classes.
Impact
The humour comes from the contrast between the meagre meal and the splendid surroundings. Warm colours and abundant detail invite close looking and sharpen the satirical intent.
Technique
An etching that was subsequently colored by hand. The linework is precise and typical of Gillray; the colors are applied in warm tones, giving the scene a lively feel.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)