A Classical Subject! "Demitto auviculas, ut uniquoe asellus, Cum gravius dorso subiit onus_" 1836

John Doyle created this print, "A Classical Subject!" in 1829. It presents a satirical commentary on British society, delivered with a wink to classical learning. The print cleverly uses visual and textual references to critique the social structures of its time. The Latin quote and the title itself, indicate an appeal to the educated elite, whilst the image presents a scene of social imbalance, seemingly mocking those in positions of power. Made in Britain during a time of significant social and political change, this artwork reflects the rising tensions between different social classes. Doyle was an artist who made lithographs, a relatively new technology at the time. By studying the social context in which this print was made, and in what periodical it may have been featured, we can better understand the artist's intentions. Art history, in this sense, provides an interpretive framework that enriches our understanding of an artwork.