The Chance Seller of the Exchequer Putting an Extinguisher on Lotteries

Art Historical Context

This hand-colored etching from September 1823 captures a lively moment of political satire through the work of caricaturist Thomas Rowlandson, published by John Fairburn. The scene depicts the symbolic extinguishing of state lotteries, with the “Chance Seller of the Exchequer” shown snuffing out a candle representing popular but controversial games of chance. Figures of men and women react with expressions ranging from dismay to amusement, highlighting the social stakes of the policy change. Created during a period when Britain’s government, under figures like Frederick John Robinson, sought to reform public finances, the print reflects growing moral and economic debates over lotteries. Once a common way to raise revenue, they were increasingly viewed as exploitative, prompting legislative efforts to end them by the mid-1820s. Rowlandson’s fluid line work and vibrant hand-coloring bring energy to the critique, typical of Georgian satirical prints that blended humor with pointed commentary on current events. As a print medium, the etching allowed wide distribution, making political humor accessible beyond elite circles. Today it offers visitors a window into early nineteenth-century attitudes toward gambling, governance, and public morality.

About the Artist

John Fairburn|Thomas Rowlandson|Frederick John Robinson (British|British) · 1789 |1757 –1840 |1827

British, active 1789–1840|British, London 1757–1827 London