Money and Materiality in the Golden Age of Graphic Satire

This book explores the rise of graphic satire and paper money in late eighteenth- and early nineteenth-century Britain, making surprising connections between the two. It demonstrates how cultures attach value to printed paper, accepting it as social reality and institutional fact. Satirical banknotes broke down the distinction between paper money and graphic satire.

Format: Hardback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 12 August 2022
Publisher: Associated University Presses

This captivating book delves into the fascinating interplay between graphic satire and the cultures of paper money in late eighteenth- and early nineteenth-century Britain. It explores the intriguing question of how Britons came to appreciate both graphic art and monetary value, unveiling surprising connections between two types of engraved images that gained immense popularity and influence during this period. Graphic satire, characterized by its audacious visual experimentation, saw a surge in artistic risk-taking, pushing the boundaries of creativity and challenging societal norms. At the same time, paper money emerged as a more standardized and widely accepted medium of financial exchange, sparking debates about its ethical implications, moral problems, and potential contribution to inflation.

To unravel the complex relationship between these two phenomena, the book employs a comprehensive analytical approach, examining satirical prints and conducting case studies of monetary satires beyond London. Through this detailed examination, it reveals several key insights into how cultures assign value to printed paper, treating it as a social reality and an institutional fact. Satirical banknotes, in particular, played a pivotal role in blurring the boundaries between paper money and graphic satire, as they combined the visual wit of satire with the monetary authority of currency.

This book not only sheds light on the historical significance of graphic satire and paper money but also offers valuable insights into the broader cultural and societal dynamics of the time. It explores how these two mediums intersected to shape public opinion, challenge authority, and comment on social and political issues. By examining the ways in which individuals and societies valued and exchanged these printed materials, the book provides a rich tapestry of historical knowledge and offers valuable perspectives on the evolving relationship between art, money, and power.

In conclusion, this captivating book offers a profound exploration of the intertwined rise of graphic satire and cultures of paper money in late eighteenth- and early nineteenth-century Britain. Through its meticulous analysis and insightful revelations, it provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex interplay between art, money, and society in the past. Its insights into the cultural valuation of printed paper and the role of satirical banknotes in blurring the boundaries between these two mediums are sure to interest scholars, historians, and anyone with an interest in the intersection of art, culture, and history.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781644532690