John Bull Reading the Extraordinary Red Book Possibly 1816

This satirical print, created by William Elmes in 1816, depicts John Bull, a symbol of England, in a state of outrage while reading the "Extraordinary Red Book," a register of government spending. The book reveals exorbitant salaries and pensions awarded to officials, sparking John Bull's anger and frustration. Elmes uses caricature to exaggerate the features of the figures, including the oversized spectacles and exaggerated expression of John Bull, creating a humorous yet critical commentary on the government's financial practices. The print is an excellent example of political satire, a genre that used humor and exaggeration to expose corruption and social injustices. Known as *John Bull Reading the Extraordinary Red Book*, the work is a significant example of British print culture in the early 19th century.