A permanent piece-peace on a firm basis (BM 1868,0808.5659)

Pitt lies on the ground face downwards, having fallen from an overturned rectangular pedestal (right). This is inscribed 'Plaster of Paris', and has the inscription: 'Erected in Honor of a Treaty of Commerce and Friendship between two Rivals Nations'. He has been overthrown by a blast inscribed 'Amsterdamers Gale'. His body is 'British Brass'. A torn scroll hangs above his head: 'Plan for paying off the national Debt'; torn fragments inscribed 'Peace Establishment' lie on the ground. Under his left arm is a document: 'French Treaty, or a long and lasting Peace secured by reciprocal Advantages'. A torn paper is inscribed 'System of Treaties'. Beneath the title is etched:

'Alas, Poor Billy! - I know him well Britannia; a fellow of infinite Vanity, of most consummate Conceit; he hath sworn a thousand times to the goodness of his Treaty of Amity and Commerce; and now, how easily a Dutch Squall overturns it - Here hang those lips that have deceived I know not how oft. Where be your reciprocal advantages, your lasting Peace, your French Faith, and where your Gibes that were wont to set your Boys on a roar? Not one now, to mock your own grining? quite chop-fallen? - Now get ye to your Juvenile Crew, and tell them that however they strut and brag inexperience to this must come! make them laugh at that --- --- ---
Parody from Hamlet by Publico -' 12 October 1787

Etching