Downfal of monopoly in 1800

Rowlandson, Thomas, 1756-1827 · August 14, 1800

Death, the central figure, chases monopolizers who are in headlong flight to the left, shadowed by heavy clouds. Behind him is a statue of Britannia holding spear and cornucopia, the lion beside her dominates the scene. Men and women dance round the pedestal in frantic joy. On the right, in full sunshine, two women and three naked infants rejoice over a loaf inscribed 'Quartern Loaf 8d'. In the background (right) is the shore on which are cattle and sacks, while a fleet of merchant ships approaches.