John Bull Ground Down Possibly 1795

"John Bull Ground Down," a satirical cartoon by James Gillray, depicts a personification of England, "John Bull," being ground down by a mill, symbolizing the burden of taxation and war. The artwork, created around 1795, is a powerful critique of the British government's policies, using exaggerated figures and bold colors to convey its message. The image captures the anxieties of the time and provides a visual commentary on the political climate of late 18th-century England. Gillray's sharp wit and masterful use of caricature made his work a significant force in shaping public opinion. This print, now part of The Art Institute of Chicago's collection, exemplifies Gillray's legacy as a prominent political cartoonist.