'Taming of the shrew : - Katharine & Petruchio : - the modern Quixotte, or what you will'
5 of 6 portraits of Frederick William I, King of Prussia
'Taming of the shrew : - Katharine & Petruchio : - the modern Quixotte, or what you will'
by James Gillray, published by Samuel William Fores
hand-coloured etching, published 20 April 1791
9 7/8 in. x 15 7/8 in. (250 mm x 403 mm) paper size
Purchased, 1947
Reference Collection
NPG D12416
Sittersback to top
- Catherine II, Empress of Russia (1729-1796), Known as 'The Great', reigned 1762-96. Sitter in 5 portraits. Identify
- Frederick William I, King of Prussia (1688-1740), Reigned 1713-40. Sitter associated with 6 portraits. Identify
- King George III (1738-1820), Reigned 1760-1820. Sitter associated with 194 portraits. Identify
- Leopold II, Holy Roman Emperor (1747-1792), King of Bohemia and Hungary. Sitter in 1 portrait. Identify
- William Pitt (1759-1806), Prime Minister. Sitter associated with 174 portraits. Identify
Artistsback to top
- Samuel William Fores (baptised 1761-1838), Printseller and publisher. Artist or producer associated with 119 portraits.
- James Gillray (1756-1815), Caricaturist. Artist or producer associated with 887 portraits, Sitter in 7 portraits.
Subjects & Themesback to top
Events of 1791back to top
Current affairs
Thomas Paine publishes his inflammatory and widely read Rights of Man in response to Edmund Burke's Reflections on the Revolution in France of the previous year. The work advocates radical revolution and prompts a trial for seditious libel that takes place in his absence.The Catholic Relief Act is passed, repealing the most severe penal laws.
Art and science
Robert Burns publishes Tam O'Shanter, combining the Scottish vernacular with the formal traditions of classical English poetry and exploring radical ideas of freedom.The Observer newspaper is founded.
The Ordnance Survey is set up to prepare detailed maps of the country.
International
Mozart composes The Magic Flute.The Declaration of the Rights of Man establishes liberal freedoms in France
The French Constitution is passed by the National Assembly.
Louis XVI flees Paris with his family but is captured at Varennes.
William Pitt declares Britain will remain neutral in any war against France.
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