'' (1792), Cruikshank's depiction of the alleged murder of a slave girl by
John Kimber, published 10 April 1792 's new
tax on hair powder. During the late 18th century, there was propaganda due to political turbulence in Europe, in particular the
French Revolution. The
British monarchy was being criticized for debauchery during this time, as it was a period of economic hardship and debt.
Political caricature and graphic satire became a prominent outlet for mass propaganda to express competing perspectives on political and economic issues. The revolution triggered feelings and expressions of patriotism towards artists' home countries which they depicted by shedding a grotesque light on their countries' enemies. Isaac Cruikshank, James Gillray, and
Thomas Rowlandson were considered the leading caricaturists during this period, and they produced many popular sketches and graphics satirizing contemporary issues. These three prominent artists' distinct styles and subject matter became notable and widespread throughout Europe, although they also adapted and borrowed images from lesser-known artists. The three illustrators were sometimes considered rivals as their ideas often took opposing positions on important matters, despite sometimes collaborating on works. A common theme in all three artists' works was the portrayal of gluttony and cannibalism meant to represent the exploitation of the people by the monarchy, sparked by the effects on the economy of France of the Revolution. In 1803 after France declared war on Britain, numerous patriotic prints resulted focused around support and strength for the British homefront. Cruikshank was one of the first to illustrate Napoleon as a negative caricature in his work
Buonaparte at Rome Giving Audience in State (1797). In 1809, Cruikshank created
French Generals Receiving an English Charge which largely attacked
Prince Frederick, Duke of York for his scandalous affairs with
Mary Anne Clarke during the time. ==Legacy==