Blowing up the Pic Nics or Harlequin Quixotte attacking the Puppets

Discover the allure of art with our faithful reproduction of "Blowing up the Pic Nics or Harlequin Quixotte attacking the Puppets", originally brought to life by the talented James Gillray. Unlike posters or prints, our hand-painted oil painting breathes an unique sense of depth and texture into your space. Every detail, every stroke, and every texture is meticulously recreated, paying the perfect homage to James Gillray and his artistic vision.

Owning this piece is more than just decoration - it's a statement of your refined taste in art. Let the vibrant colors and intricate details of this replica serve as a daily reminder of the beauty in our world. Elevate your decor and appreciate the richness of art with our replica of this masterpiece.

"Blowing up the Pic Nic's or Harlequin Quixotte attacking the Puppets" is a celebrated satirical caricature by renown British caricaturist James Gillray. Published May 29, 1802, this work operates as a commentary on the theatrical war underway in London at the start of the 19th century.

The caricature a scene in which theatre producer Richard Sheridan, portrayed as Don Quixote, sabotages a rival theatre performance. Gillray paints this scene as a metaphorical assault on 'rival' theatrical performances at the Opera House, a gesture to the intense competition between Covent Garden, managed by Sheridan, and the King's Theatre in the Haymarket.

Gillray portrays Sheridan astride the wooden horse, Rocinante, with a bale of hay attached to its mouth, which indicates a recently enforced 'hay tax'. Sheridan, under the guise of Don Quixote, is shown blowing up a theatre gone ‘picnic’. This references the newly invented ‘picnic’ performances that sought to circumvent stipulated theatrical patent laws which limited regular drama performances to particular theatres. Gillray’s depiction of the spectators in the caricature, draped in fashionable attire, seeks to deride the concept of the rich patronising 'picnics' as well as the stubborn attack by Sheridan, beleaguering rival theatrical productions that threatened his domain.

This meticulously designed caricature by Gillray mirrors the socio-political dimensions of the theatrical world of the time, underpinning the theme of rivalry, regulation, and fashionable society within the realm of 19th-century British theatre.

The caricature is currently under the possession of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, serving as a compelling representation of Gillray's creative genius in encapsulating and critiquing elements of socio-political life through graphic satire.

When you order this oil painting replica, it typically takes 2-3 weeks to paint. If the artwork is more complex, it might need a little more time to ensure the best quality. Once it's ready, we'll send you a photo for your approval. After you give the green light, we'll ship it to you for free.

We believe in the quality of our hand-painted oil painting reproductions, and your satisfaction is our priority. If for any reason, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, we offer a 45-day return policy. You can return your artwork within 45 days of receipt and receive a full refund. Please note that the artwork must be returned in the original packaging and in the same condition as it was received.