The Headache c. 1819

"The Headache", a hand-colored etching by George Cruikshank, depicts a man suffering from a terrible headache, symbolized by a swarm of small, devilish figures torturing him. The image, a classic example of Cruikshank's satirical work, uses humor to explore the pain and discomfort of a common ailment. The detailed, intricate figures, and the dramatic use of light and shadow create a vivid and engaging scene, drawing the viewer into the man's torment. This satirical print, which was created in 1819, now resides in The Art Institute of Chicago.