How can an 18th Century cartoonist be the inspiration for modern day mixology? Sam Mitchell has found a way and lucky for us we get to sample his artistic creations?
James Gillray might not be as well known as his fellow 18thC cartoonist Hogarth, but does William have one of the great Gin Bars in London bearing his name? I think not. Gillray was known as “the father of the political cartoon” for poking fun at the mad King George III and others in his wake. Hogarth and he reigned supreme with their humorous, witty and biting caricatures.
Now, as in the 17th C, the spirit known as Mother’s Ruin is also reigning supreme in the city of its birth. Sam Mitchell who helms Gillray’s Bar at the London Marriott Hotel County Hall joins us on the show to explain his take on this craze. He talks, among other things, about how he draws inspiration from the artist’s work in creating the exciting menu.
It adds to the enjoyment, but is not essential, to come along already versed in Gillray’s work.
FYI: Don’t be confused! This video is branded with my old logo, Best Sips Worldwide. Just ignore it and watch the amazing cocktail making 😉
Here are four of the cartoons which have leant their names to a few of the cocktails on the menu.
From top to bottom, left to right the images are:
- ‘Drawing out a new batching of kings’ by James Gillray
- ‘Regardez moi’ by James Gillray, hand-coloured etching and aquatint, 1781
- ‘The Jubilee’ by James Gillray, published by Elizabeth d’Acheryby James Gillray, published by Elizabeth d’Achery, hand-coloured etching, published 2 August 1782
- ‘Uncorking Old Sherry’ by James Gillray
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