Title
Shah Alum in distress
Caption
Shah Alum in distress; engraving dated 1773. 'A design in two compartments illustrating an article in Biblical phraseology; 'The First Chapter of the Book of Kings' and 'The Lamentations'. In the upper part is depicted a meeting of the General Court of the East India Company; the directors seated at a table on which are writing materials; a book; and a hammer. In the foreground a large man; Governor Johnston; is holding up by the seat of his breeches 'Shah Alum' or Sir George Colebrook for the derision of the other directors. In the background; behind a barrier; a crowd of men; apparently the proprietors of East India Stock; watch the proceedings with amusement. A ship with broken masts in heavy seas is driving on to rocks (right); on which is a flag-staff with a flag inscribed 'Treasury Cape'. On the right margin is inscribed 'L. 40; 00; 00'. This symbolizes the ruinous state of the Company's finances; on the verge of bankruptcy and burdened with an annual tribute of £400; 000 to the Treasury.'
Date
1773
Credit line
Photo12/Ann Ronan Picture Library
Reference
ARP18A10_070
License type
Rights managed
Available size
40,0Mb (3,1Mb) / 8,8in x 17,7in / 2631 x 5315 (300dpi)