La Poule Possibly 1817

George Cruikshank's satirical etching, "La Poule" (c. 1817), depicts a group of socialites gathered in a ballroom, likely a parody of a specific event or individual. Cruikshank, known for his caricatures and social commentary, utilizes exaggeration and humor to expose the absurdity of the upper class, creating a witty visual critique of social norms. The image’s exaggerated figures and their distorted proportions, create a visual representation of the absurdity of social dances and societal expectations of the time. This artwork, held by The Art Institute of Chicago, offers a glimpse into the social satire and visual wit of the early 19th century.