James Gillray — Two Suppressed Satires, Printed from the Original Copper Plates, c. 1851

James Gillray (1756–1815)
The Grand-Signior Retiring & The Jersey Smuggler Detected
Originally published May 24–25, 1796
Bohn edition, c. 1847–1851
Etchings printed from Gillray's original copper plates

A substantial 19th-century sheet containing two of James Gillray's celebrated political satires, originally issued on consecutive days in May 1796.

The compositions satirize the scandal surrounding George, Prince of Wales—later King George IV—and Frances Villiers, Countess of Jersey.

This impression comes from Henry G. Bohn's celebrated edition of Gillray's works, printed from the surviving original copper plates approximately half a century after their first publication.

The two works form Nos. 33 and 34 of the group known as Gillray's “Suppressed Plates,” a series of politically and socially provocative compositions privately circulated by Bohn rather than included in the standard published collection.

Both compositions remain together on the original large-format sheet.

Condition: Very good overall antique condition with expected signs of age and handling. Unframed. Please refer to photographs for complete condition.

Circa 1847–1851.