A harnessed lion on the left struggles to pull away from "The Pit of ruin" into which he is being pulled backwards by four other animals whose harnesses are attached to a large hook at the end of his. They represent Spain (spaniel), France (cockerel), United States (rattle snake) and Holland (pug). The lion is hindered by four disoriented donkeys representing the new ministry who yank back on his rope bridle. A two-headed eagle (possibly Russia) hovers above the pit protesting its neutrality
Alternative Title:
Ass-headed and cow-hearted ministry making the British Lion
Description:
Title from caption etched below image., Sheet trimmed within plate mark., A rebus with the words in the title -- ass, cow, and lion -- represented by images., and Mounted to 26 x 43 cm.
Publisher:
Pubd. by J. Barrow, May 8, 1783 White Lion Bull Stairs Surry Side Block Friars Bridge
Subject (Geographic):
Great Britain and England
Subject (Topic):
Politics and government, Foreign relations, Harnesses, Donkeys, Dogs, Roosters, Snakes, Lions, Eagles, Cows, and Clothing & dress
