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O Tempora, O Mores!, December 1799. Creator: Samuel Alken
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O Tempora, O Mores!, December 1799. Creator: Samuel Alken
O Tempora, O Mores!, December 1799
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 20380009
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Alcohol Alken Alken Samuel Alken Samuel Senior Asleep Bowl Drunk Drunken Drunkenness Fores Fores Samuel W Fores Samuel William Fores Sw Foress W Hand Coloured Etching Punch Punch Bowl Punchbowl Rowlandson Rowlandson Thomas S W Fores Samuel Samuel Alken Samuel Alken Senior Samuel W Samuel W Fores Samuel William Samuel William Fores Senior Sleep Sleeping Sw Fores Thomas Rowlandson Aquatint Hand Tinted
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O Tempora, O Mores! - A Satirical Glimpse into 18th Century British Drinking Culture
EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this hand-coloured etching by Samuel Alken, titled "O Tempora, O Mores!, December 1799" we are transported back to the lively and indulgent atmosphere of a British punch party. The scene unfolds within the confines of an opulent interior at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Filled with rowdy men partaking in excessive drinking, this artwork serves as a satirical commentary on the social mores and vices prevalent during that era. Alken's intricate detailing brings every element to life: from the meticulously rendered punch bowl at the center stage to Thomas Rowlandson's humorous depiction of drunken individuals scattered across the room. As one gazes upon this image, it becomes evident that alcohol has taken its toll on these revelers; some are slumped over tables or dozing off while others engage in animated conversations. The artist skillfully captures not only their physical state but also conveys a deeper concept - a scathing critique of society's penchant for excess and debauchery. Through his masterful use of aquatint and hand tinting techniques, Alken creates an immersive experience that transports viewers into this raucous world. "O Tempora, O Mores!, December 1799" is more than just a snapshot frozen in time; it offers us valuable insights into past customs and behaviors. It reminds
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