Print, The BELLIGERANT PLENIPO'S
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The lower margin reads: "The BELLIGERANT PLENIPO'S/ T. Colley, fec.t/ Pub by W. Richardson N68 High Holborn, Dec.r 6 1782 as the Act Directs."
Post American Revolution, five plenipotentiaries, each holding his country's flag, represents the five powers involved in the conflict. Each stands on a separate island symbolic of the individual positions maintained by their respective countries during talks.
Wearing only half a crown, George III stands on the left before an empty purse, an arm, and a foot saying, "I give them Independence." France, his severed arm at Britain's feet, declares. "I must have Canada and Grenada for my Arm." Holland is a weeping figure on crutches; his amputated foot before George symbolizes financial losses during the war. He insists on Eustatia and Ceylon in retribution. Forced to wear a peg leg, Spain demands Gilbraltar for his injury. Last comes a scantily clad, smiling Indian Princess America who holds the other half of George's crown and the liberty cap. She proclaims: "I have got all I wanted Empire!" Above, half shrouded in clouds, appears Hibernia (Ireland) announcing that "I deny all foreign Jurisdictions & will roast my own potatoes." This refers to Ireland's desire to follow America's example and achieve independence from Britain.
Preliminary articles of peace had been signed only days before this satire was published, and it is clear that the designer was not fully aware of all of their terms. France did not negotiate for Canada and had already recaptured Eustatia, thereby disregarding Holland's claims, while America's recognition as an independent nation still depended on an agreement between Great Britain and France.
