Artwork Information

Thackeray wrote of George I; 'A despot in Hanover, he was a moderate ruler in England. He was more than fifty-four years of age when he came amongst us: we took him because he served our turn, we laughed at his uncouth German ways, and sneered at him. He took our loyalty for what it was worth; laid hands on what money he could; kept us assuredly from Popery and wooden shoes.' Apparently his mistresses, secretaries, cooks and African slaves all had a share in the booty.