Spotprent met Lord Ellenborough als een wilde olifant Possibly 1844

Editor: So, this print is called "Spotprent met Lord Ellenborough als een wilde olifant," which roughly translates to "Print with Lord Ellenborough as a wild elephant," made around 1844 by John Doyle. It's an etching and engraving on paper, and it looks pretty satirical. I’m struck by the odd scene – a huge elephant next to what looks like Adam and Eve. What's your take on this, why an elephant? Curator: Well, isn't it wonderfully peculiar? This isn't just any elephant; it's Lord Ellenborough lampooned! Doyle’s work often served as witty social commentary. Notice the figures in the background resembling Adam and Eve. Now look at the snake… Can you see the inscription "Admiralty" on it? Editor: Oh, I see it now! The snake is labeled, so, is this about political scandals and the Admiralty? Curator: Precisely! Doyle uses the biblical scene as a stage for political theater. Ellenborough's policies – likely those related to colonial administration or perhaps naval affairs – are portrayed as disruptive. Think of the elephant as a symbol of disruptive, foreign power let loose in the Garden of Eden that is English society. And that wonderfully trumpet-like trunk - that’s no accident. It signifies public pronouncements and policy announcements. The elephant, far from being a majestic creature, becomes a symbol of administrative bloat. What a stroke of satirical genius! Editor: Wow, that’s a lot to unpack. So it's not just a random elephant, but a very pointed jab at someone's policies! I never would have picked that up on my own. Curator: Isn't that the joy of art, though? It reflects, distorts, and asks questions all at once! Next time you see a political cartoon, think beyond the immediate laugh, consider what the artist is truly wrestling with!