Boney's Meditations on the Island of St. Helena 1815

"Boney's Meditations on the Island of St. Helena" is a political cartoon created by George Cruikshank in 1815. The artwork depicts Napoleon Bonaparte, exiled to St. Helena, as a devil-like figure with horns and bat wings. He addresses the sun, which represents the Allied powers that defeated him at the Battle of Waterloo. The rays of the sun are labeled with the names of prominent figures in the coalition, including Wellington, Blücher, and Tsar Alexander. The cartoon is a satirical commentary on Napoleon's downfall and the triumph of his enemies. This satirical print reflects the strong anti-Napoleonic sentiments prevalent in England during the period. The artist's use of caricature and symbolism further reinforces the message of the work, making it a compelling example of political satire. Cruikshank’s graphic style and the exaggerated features of Napoleon in the cartoon contribute to its satirical effect.