'A charm for a democracy, reviewed, analysed, & destroyed Jany 1st 1799 to the confusion of its affiliated friends'

1 portrait of Francis Russell, 5th Duke of Bedford

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© National Portrait Gallery, London

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'A charm for a democracy, reviewed, analysed, & destroyed Jany 1st 1799 to the confusion of its affiliated friends'

by Thomas Rowlandson, published by James Whittle
hand-coloured etching, published 1 February 1799
11 1/8 in. x 16 7/8 in. (283 mm x 429 mm) paper size
Purchased, 1947
Reference Collection
NPG D12677

Artistsback to top

  • Thomas Rowlandson (1757-1827), Satirical draughtsman. Artist or producer associated with 30 portraits, Sitter associated with 4 portraits.
  • James Whittle (circa 1757-1818), Printseller and publisher. Artist or producer associated with 9 portraits.

Sittersback to top

Placesback to top

Events of 1799back to top

Current affairs

The Prince of Wales is reconciled with his secret wife Maria Fitzherbert.
Corresponding Societies Act is passed prohibiting certain named political groups including the radical London Corresponding Society and the United Irishmen.

Art and science

The Swiss artist Henry Fuseli, resident in England since 1778, is appointed Professor of Painting at the Royal Academy.
The conservative educator Hannah More publishes her Strictures on Female Education which criticised demands for women's rights while proposing an active role for them within religious and moral movements.

International

Successful defence of Acre in the Levant is led by William Sidney Smith.
British expedition to Holland, led by General Ralph Abercromby, ends in evacuation after allies defeated at Battle of Bergen-op-Zoom.
Fall of the ruling Directory in France. Napoleon seizes power.
The Rosetta Stone is discovered in Egypt.

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