A figure composed of barrels batters the drooping head of a thistle; representing the forced resignation of Lord Melville following implications of malversation and the vote on Whitbread's motion. Aquatint by J. Sayer, 1805.

[London] (St James's) : H. Humphrey, 26 June 1805.

1 print : aquatint ; image and text 35.6 x 25.1 cm

The brewer and the thistle. sansterre forsook his malt and grains to mash and batter nobles brains by lev'lling rancour led our brewer quits Brown Stout and Washey his malt his mash tub and his quashee to mash a thistle's head. me quisque impune lacessit. J S fect. ... Lettering within the design reads "Wanted supply of naval stores inquire within. Pophams defence. Romney. Hoc signo non vincent. System of terror. I say Amen to all Cantwell. Hymns & spiritual songs on the slave trade by St Wilber. Performed The Tragedy Timon of Lord Timon Mr Melvill Lucullus a false friend & kinsman Mr Kinhard little more than kin and less than kind Scotch Reel & c. Old Hollan[ds] for Ullage Cas[k] defict ... millions. Tenth report. Wormwood quassia aloes. Magna Carta. Trial by peers. Criminal prosecution by the Atty General. New law inquisition committees torture question thumb screw peine forte [et dure]"

Published description in: British Museum, Catalogue of political and personal satires, vol. VIII, p. 356, no. 10416

Wellcome Collection 25936i