“A Picturesque View of the State of the Nation” Satirical Etching
French edition, 1780 (after the 1778 Westminster Magazine)
Frame: 13½ x 15¾ inches; sight: 9½ x 11¾ inches
 
A richly allegorical satirical print of the American Revolution depicting America, personified by a figure in a feathered cap, shearing the horns of British commerce represented by a cow, while a Dutchman milks it and figures symbolizing France and Spain stand ready to partake. At right, the British lion lies asleep as a symbol of complacency, while in the distance Philadelphia appears with the ship Eagle in dry dock and Admiral Richard Howe and General William Howe shown in repose, reinforcing the satire of British leadership during the conflict.
 
Condition: Very fine.