Politeness 1774 - 1784

Editor: We're looking at "Politeness," a print made between 1774 and 1784 by James Gillray. It looks like an engraving, maybe even a drawing first. I'm immediately struck by the exaggerated expressions and how each figure is juxtaposed with these… strange items hung on the wall behind them. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a powerful commentary on national identity and the political climate of late 18th-century Britain. Gillray, like many satirists of the era, uses caricature to critique social norms and political figures. The "politeness" of the title is dripping with irony, considering the animosity depicted between the Englishman and the Frenchman. Notice how he visualizes national stereotypes. Editor: Right, the Englishman with his beef and beer, the Frenchman with… dead fowl? So, is he commenting on something specific? Curator: Absolutely. This piece reflects the ongoing tensions between Britain and France, intensified by events like the American Revolution, in which France supported the colonists. The print engages with anxieties about national character and the perceived threat of foreign influence. Consider the composition: the two figures are almost mirror images, locked in a mutual disdain, visually embodying a state of perpetual conflict. Does the text add anything for you? Editor: It seems to! It adds this extra layer by showcasing not just visual stereotypes, but also these ideas about language use, class, and taste being associated with certain nations. Curator: Precisely. Gillray is engaging in a visual debate about British identity in relation to its European counterpart, using the print medium as a vehicle for political commentary and public discourse. The museum’s role in displaying pieces such as this creates a space to reflect on how the past affects our understanding of our world today. Editor: I never thought about it that way. It's much more than just a funny picture. Curator: Indeed. Gillray's work reminds us that art can be a powerful tool for shaping public opinion and negotiating national identity.