"The figures are numbered, referring to a short printed explanation beneath the plate. A man (1), England, dressed only in a shirt, with an expression of horrified rage, is being held by two men, (4) and (5), representing Denmark and Sweden. France (7) stands behind him about to place a fool's cap on his head. Russia (right) (3), a stalwart man wearing a fur cap and long gown, is about to strike him with a large club. A plainly dressed man (2), America, runs off to the left with his clothes, looking back with a smile. Holland, as a Dutchman (6), kneels on the ground fixing shackles to the ankles of the Man in the Shirt. The scene is the sea-shore. Small vessels (left) (8) have boards on the top of their bare masts; behind them are ships in full sail (9). A man (10) clenches his fist at the sight of the vessels. In the foreground lie torn documents (11). The explanation, translated: (1), "A man in a shirt in a great rage; (2), an American, who carries away his money and clothes laughing; (3), a Russian threatening to strike him; (4) and (5) hold each an arm; (6), a Dutchman who puts chains on him; (8), some dismantled privateers; (9), a fleet of merchant ships sailing undisturbed; (10), a man who sees this, stamping his feet; (11), some torn-up treaties." 1780 Etching with letterpress explanation"--British Museum online catalogue
Description:
Title from item., Sheet trimmed., and One figure in print identified (in ms.?) as B. Franklin.
