Bokspartij tussen Eldon en Channing, 1827 Possibly 1827

Henry Heath created this hand-coloured etching in 1827. It depicts a boxing match between two prominent figures in British society, lampooning their political stances through caricature. The image uses visual codes to create meaning. On one side we have the Duke of Clarence, or "Black George" accompanied by Britannia and the British lion, symbolizing conservative values. On the other is George Canning, or "dubious Jack", backed by a Catholic bishop, who seems to offer absolution for a price, representing a progressive, pro-Catholic stance. The artwork was made in a time when Catholic Emancipation was a contentious issue in Britain. The artist is commenting on the social and political divisions of his time, using satire to critique both sides. Understanding the institutional and political history of 19th-century Britain is crucial for interpreting this work. We can find out more about the political figures represented in sources such as parliamentary records, newspapers and periodicals. Art, in this case, reflects and shapes the social context in which it was created.