La Table d'Hote Possibly 1792

Thomas Rowlandson made this print, La Table d'Hote, in 1792. The image captures a scene of communal dining, a snapshot of social life that is also a comment on the political tensions between England and France at the time. Here, Rowlandson uses the setting of a shared meal to explore national stereotypes and anxieties. The print was made during the early years of the French Revolution, a period of upheaval that deeply impacted British society. The artist exaggerates the characteristics of the diners to create caricatures that speak to the cultural perceptions and misperceptions between the two nations. The backdrop, which includes a depiction of Versailles, points directly to the French aristocracy and the excesses that fueled revolutionary fervor. Historians can use sources like newspapers, letters, and political pamphlets to better understand the social and institutional context of Rowlandson's work. By understanding the world in which it was created, we can better grasp its commentary on contemporary issues.