Tailpiece to the Catalogue of Pictures Exhibited in Spring Garden 1761

Charles Grignion created this etching, "Tailpiece to the Catalogue of Pictures Exhibited in Spring Garden" in 1761. The print offers a satirical commentary on the artistic and social landscape of 18th-century England. Note the figure of the monkey, a symbol often used to mock human vanity and foolishness. Here, the monkey carefully tends to two potted plants marked with the word "OBIT," suggesting the death of artistic traditions or perhaps a critique of the Royal Academy's exhibition. The print speaks volumes about the era’s art world, where the rise of institutions like the Royal Academy was both celebrated and viewed with skepticism. Grignion uses humor to dissect themes of cultural change and artistic pretension. The inscription at the bottom translates to "What shall I say of this? Fame is denied to the living!" which encapsulates the anxiety of artists seeking recognition in a rapidly evolving art market. Consider how Grignion uses satire to express both a critical and humorous view of the art world's shifting values.