John Bull and the Sinking-Fund Possibly 1807

This hand-colored etching by James Gillray, titled *John Bull and the Sinking Fund,* is a satirical take on British politics at the time. The cartoon depicts "John Bull," a personification of England, being crushed by a giant pot labeled "The Sinking Fund," while those in power, including Prime Minister William Pitt, scoop up gold coins from the top. Gillray was a prolific political cartoonist in the late 18th century, known for his biting and often crude critiques of British society. His use of caricature and symbolism makes this artwork both humorous and insightful, offering a glimpse into the complexities of British politics during the Napoleonic Wars. This work is a testament to the power of visual art to comment on contemporary events, and remains a significant example of British satirical printmaking.