Pull Devil, Pull Baker! Possibly 1819

This print by George Cruikshank was made in England in the early 19th century and presents a satirical commentary on the social and religious conflicts of the time. At first glance, you can see the caricatured figures and symbolic elements which were typical of Cruikshank's style. In the image, you'll see a tug-of-war between clergymen and their flocks, represented as sheep and fish, over the distribution of resources, specifically "loaves & fishes," a biblical reference to charity. The artist uses visual codes to critique the Church of England, portraying its leaders as greedy and self-serving while the common people are left struggling. The composition with its chaotic energy and exaggerated features, serves to amplify the sense of social upheaval and moral decay. To fully understand this artwork, it helps to research the socio-political context of early 19th century England, with its class divisions, religious tensions, and debates over social welfare. By examining such historical resources, we can gain insights into the artist's intentions and the artwork's cultural significance.