French post extraordinary from Moscow to Paris Ausserordentliche Französische Reitpost von Moscau nach Paris Cruikshank, George 1792-1878 caricaturist Humphrey, Hannah ca. 1745-1818 publisher London 1813 1 print; 27 x 37.4 cm The title, as well as the dialogue spoken by the characters, is inscribed in Cyrillic, German, and English (possibly Cruikshank's addition). An ass with winged hooves soars through the air; his graceless journey is heralded by two trumpeting figures on golden eagles tethered to his tail. A plaque around his neck signals that he is "Le Courier Extraordinaire de l'Emp[ereur] Napoleon"-- The Extraordinary Courier of the Emperor Napoleon." Yet, the mule is clearly angry; he snorts fire from his nostrils and brays. The pomp indicated by the trappings and flags does little to hide the fact that the "Great Nation" and the "Grand Emperor" are supported by a common farm mule. Five figures straddle the mule's back. Napoleon, dressed in full military regalia, holds an eagle and a paper inscribed "Tout à Dessein" in his outstretched arms. Behind Napoleon, four other figures symbolizing four French generals in different branches of the army proudly celebrate their escape from Moscow. Bringing up the rear, a woman standing in a basket inscribed "Provisions from Moscow"--and suggestively hung from the ass's tail--offers a bone and an empty flask to two figures who hang on to the animal's tail. The figures who hang from the mule's tail have been identified by George as a hussar officer and possibly a polish officer. Despite their pleas made to Napoleon and the French officers who are securely riding the mule, they are in great danger of losing their grasp. This print is in excellent condition. Published by Hannah Humphrey. This sheet is one of a series made after Russian satires by George Cruikshank. 1813-03-26 Copied from a Russian Print Pubd March 26th 1813 by H. Humphprey St James's St. London Trumpeters: "He is coming, the Great Emperor is Coming!" "Erkomt dor Grosse!" Napoleon: "Mit Ruhm geb'ich das Ferien geld!!!" Also, in Cyrillic. English translation by George: [With Glory I left without paying my bills!] Figure waving a cannon: "seh't da! See! See!" Figure in basket: "Courage meine Herrn! Courage Gentlemen!" Hussar officer: "Erbarmt Euch nehmt uns mit, For Gods sake take us with you." TH1.53 eo [?] A Napoleon I, Emperor of the French 1769-1821 Caricatures and cartoons Women Napoleonic Satires 2 http://dl.lib.brown.edu/napoleon Bullard Portfolio John Hay Library 1137104030744640 still image No Copyright - United StatesCollection is open for research.