Fox en de Prins van Wales, 1783 1783

John Boyne created this print titled 'Fox and the Prince of Wales' in 1783, a time of political tension in England. It depicts Charles James Fox, a prominent Whig politician, and the Prince of Wales, later King George IV, in a satirical light. The print uses Shakespearean characters, Falstaff and Prince Hal, as stand-ins for the Prince and Fox respectively. Falstaff, the fat, debauched knight, stands for the Prince, highlighting his excessive lifestyle. Fox, as Prince Hal, signals his close association with the Prince, and their shared political agenda. This caricature not only pokes fun at their appearances and behavior, but also critiques their political ambitions. Prints like these played a significant role in shaping public opinion during the late 18th century. Boyne's print reflects the societal anxieties about the monarchy, the aristocracy, and their perceived corruption. It captures a moment in history when political discourse was increasingly expressed through satire and caricature.