Half an hour before dinner, Half an Hour after Supper

George Cruikshank

1800

Half an hour before dinner, Half an Hour after Supper by George Cruikshank, 1800

This hilarious 1800 print perfectly captures the universal mood swing from 'hangry' to 'food coma.' In the top scene, two grumpy, impatient figures hold a scroll showing a chaotic room where everyone is arguing and desperate for food. But flip down to the bottom half, and the vibe transforms completely: the figures are now rosy-cheeked, smiling, and dozing off, while the scroll reveals a peaceful, candlelit dinner party where everyone is happily stuffed. Originally designed as decorative ornaments for fireplace screens, this British satire pokes fun at how a good meal fixes all bad moods.

Technique
Hand-colored engraving
Material
Paper
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