A female winged figure (r.) in classical draperies stands upon clouds surrounded by rays of light. Over her head fly two cherubs, one holding a shield with the arms of the City of London, the other a civic mace and chains. Her r. hand rests on the head of a seated figure dressed as a harlequin round whose forehead is a placard inscribed "The Times". In her left hand she holds a mask which she has just removed from his face, revealing an evil countenance; he turns away from "the Genius of the London Magazine", and attempts to hide his scowling face with his hand.  On his head is a weathercock inscribed "The Fashions".  In his right. hand he holds open a box from which are hanging narrow strips of paper inscribed: "Continental Histor[y]"; "State Sharping"; "Freewill"; "Bigotry"; "200,000£"; "Dearness of Provisions"; "Prerogative"; "Pension"; "Patriotism"; "The Drama".  Similar labels decorate his person: "Bon Ton"; "Popularity"; "Corruption"; "Nabobships"; "Bankruptcies"; "Crim. Con."; "Fraud"; "Folly".   Beneath the titles is engraved,
<p><br><br>"Blest Genius! still be thine the arduous task; 
<br>From motley Times to draw the Iron mask. 
<br>On Errors eye to pour thy splendid ray, 
<br>And give the glories of eternal Day." 1 February 1772
</p>
<br>Etching
1772<div style="display: none;">date QS:P571,+1772-00-00T00:00:00Z/9</div>
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