Cartoon by George Cruikshank published by W. Fores, 16 Panton Street, 23 July 1820 (TS 11/115/326 (41))
The caption reads: ‘A scene from Don Giovanni as performed at the King’s Theatre. Don Giovanni by His Majesty. Donna Anna by a celebrated actress, her first appearance on this stage. Leperello by Derry Down Triangle. The other characters by the Corps de ballet.’
The cartoon was based on the famous aria ‘Madamina, il catalogo è questo’ from Mozart’s Don Giovanni, sung by his servant Leporello to Donna Elvira (the caption refers to another female character, Donna Anna). At this point, Act I, Scene V, Leporello gives a detailed account and list of his master’s numerous lovers, a clear attack on George the Prince Regent.
Transcript
[Scroll:]
A List of our wives, the Perditter, Mrs. R., Little P., Dutchess D., Marquise E., Lady G., Mrs. H., Dowager L.J.Jr, &c &c &c
[Left speech bubble:]
Ah my Wife
[Right speech bubble:]
Yes your injured Wife
[Caption:]
A scene from Don Giovanni as performed at the King’s Theatre. Don Giovanni by His Majesty. Donna Anna by a celebrated actress, her first appearance on this stage. Leperello by Derry Down Triangle. The other characters by the Corps de ballet.