L'Enfant Trouvé:–a Sample of Roman Charity!–or–the Misfortune of Not Being Born with Marks of "the Talents" 1808

James Gillray made this hand-colored etching, "L'Enfant Trouvé:–a Sample of Roman Charity!" in England around the turn of the 19th century. It’s a biting satire of the political and social climate of the time. The print depicts a group of figures inspecting an infant in a basket, alluding to the biblical story of Moses. However, Gillray twists this narrative to critique the perceived corruption and hypocrisy within British institutions. The inscription asks: "What! a Relation to the Broad Bottoms? O Sainte Marie! why there's not the least Appearance of it!–therefore, take it away to the Workhouse directly!” The "Broad Bottoms" refer to a coalition government formed in 1806, criticized for its perceived incompetence and lack of talent. Gillray uses visual cues like the figures' exaggerated features to mock the ruling class. The presence of religious iconography further underscores the hypocrisy of those in power, contrasting their supposed charity with their neglect of the less fortunate. By studying prints like these, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the social and political landscape of 19th-century England.