The Dissolution; or The Alchymist Producing an Aetherial Representation Possibly 1796

"The Dissolution; or The Alchymist Producing an Aetherial Representation" is a satirical hand-colored etching created by British artist James Gillray in 1796. The piece depicts a man, likely a caricature of King George III, attempting to produce an ethereal representation of the English Parliament using alchemical methods. This artwork is a sharp critique of the state of British politics, highlighting the perceived corruption and dissolution of the government. The humorous and exaggerated style of Gillray's work contributed to its widespread popularity during his lifetime. This print can be found in the collection of The Art Institute of Chicago.