The Genius of Caricature 1807 - 1809

This hand-colored etching by George Moutard Woodward captures a boisterous gathering, celebrating the completion of the second volume of the "Caricature Magazine" in the Temple of Mirth. Made in England, the print satirizes the culture of caricature itself, a popular form of social and political commentary during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Caricature, often published and sold as prints, played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and challenging authority. Woodward, himself a well-known caricaturist, is commenting on the institutionalization of satire. The figures in the print, with their exaggerated features and raucous demeanor, embody the spirit of caricature. The "Temple of Mirth" suggests the social space in which satirists and their patrons gathered. To truly understand this print, we can turn to primary sources such as periodicals, letters, and diaries. By examining the social and institutional contexts in which Woodward operated, we can better appreciate the nuances of his critique. Ultimately, this print reminds us that art is always a product of its time, shaped by the forces of society and culture.